The Rural NewsThe Rural News

Backpacker program axed

View descriptionShare

Farmers are lashing a federal government decision to scrap a crucial program connecting them to workers. 

The Harvest Trail service allowed farmers to recruit backpackers on temporary working visas and Australian jobseekers to work in the fields during busy harvest periods. 

Industry bodies warn the cancellation would lead to more time and money spent on recruiting, while backpackers fear there may be a rise of exploitation. 

Rural Reporter Emily Minney spoke with Aus Pineapples managing Director Colin Hawken about how the loss of the program could affect the supply chain. 

  • Facebook
  • X (Twitter)
  • WhatsApp
  • Email
  • Download

In 2 playlist(s)

  1. The Rural News

    4,264 clip(s)

  2. Rural News - News highlights

    1,305 clip(s)

The Rural News

The Rural News is market leader, dealing exclusively with stories of interest to the farming sector  
Social links
Follow podcast
Recent clips
Browse 4,385 clip(s)