The problem of harvester shortages on Australian farms

Farmers are concerned that a reduction of nearly 40,000 working holiday maker (WHM) visas annually will significantly complicate the hiring process. According to Mr. Lynch, relying on local residents for this task is extremely difficult, as farm harvesting must be carried out daily without interruption for four months (the original text states four weeks: "four weeks"). The farmer doubts it will be possible to find many locals willing to work for just one month a year while remaining unemployed the rest of the time.

Similar concerns are shared by representatives of the hospitality industry, tourism, and the broader horticulture sector. Mrs. Lynch points out the need for a comprehensive approach to migration flows and consideration of the country's actual needs, rather than focusing exclusively on statistical indicators. Marion Lucas and Guillaume Renckly, silkworm farm workers from France who arrived on WHM visas, expressed uncertainty about their future travels, noting that the conditions for visiting the country have become more complicated.

At the same time, a representative of the federal Department of Home Affairs told ABC Rural that the ongoing reforms are aimed at striking a balance between the workforce needs of regional areas of Australia and maintaining the stability of the migration program. Mr. Lynch himself stated that farming gives him a sense of purpose as he approaches retirement, and he intends to continue this activity provided that labor is available for harvesting.