Fair Work Australia has introduced a guaranteed minimum wage for Australian farm workers under the Horticulture Award.
This is big news for the Australian agriculture sector, which previously gave employers the option to pay their staff a piece rate. For context, a piece rate is when a worker is paid according to the amount of produce they pick. So, the more fruit or vegetables harvested, the more money a worker is paid. The new legislation aims to protect workers from being underpaid and exploited. Under this new move, farm workers will be entitled to a minimum wage of $25.41 per hour. This will provide them with a safety net and price floor. All workers under the Horticulture Award will now be paid for the hours of work they do, as opposed to being paid according to productivity, performance, or output.
The harvest trail is an incredible way to experience Australia, while earning money and learning new skills. With this new change in place, we hope it will be easier for farm workers and fruit pickers to understand how much they should get paid – even if English is not their first language. You don’t need to be an Australia citizen to be protected. Both backpackers and seasonal workers with valid visas have the same working rights as everyone else in Australia. This new ruling should empower workers, help ensure they are paid fairly, and have the best experience possible on Australia’s vibrant harvest trail. For more information on awards, pay, and working conditions, visit the Fair Work Australia website.
At Labour Solutions Australia, we take pride in our longstanding reputation, credibility, and compliance. We partner with only the best companies, so you can relax, and rest assured of our ethical working conditions and exceptional worksite standards. The wellbeing, safety, and fair treatment of our workers is always our number one priority.
We currently have a wide range of jobs available in the agriculture sector for residents, visa holders, and travellers looking to start a new adventure this harvest season. Browse through our currently advertised opportunities, and secure your next job, regardless of where in Australia you’re located. Alternatively, if you can’t find what you’re looking for, sign-up to receive job alerts so you’re the first to be notified as soon as a suitable position becomes available.
We’ve been connecting great people to great jobs for decades, and now it’s your turn. Apply with Labour Solutions Australia today.