By Jamie Salter
Those who have dreamt of leaving their life behind to travel around Victoria now have a chance to get paid to do harvest work.
The Australian Government has recently announced the extension of the AgMove initiative, allowing people who relocate to take up agricultural work access to a financial reimbursement for travel and accommodation costs.
The AgMove incentive has been extended until June 30 and is available to Australian citizens and temporary visa holders with a right to work in Australia.
MADEC Harvest Office manager Tyrell Gilligan said the program appeals to those seeking horticultural or agricultural based work.
“MADEC will make sure they’re willing and able workers keen to achieve harvest work and then connect them to an employer,“ Ms Gilligan said.
“AgMove relocation assistance can be for people looking for about six months worth of work and the benefits are that you’re keeping physically fit and forming new friendships.“
Since May 2021, more than 7000 AgMove agreements have been negotiated for people to move to regional Australia for short-term agricultural work.
Those who relocate for a harvest job could receive up to $6000 in reimbursement for travel expenses, PPE and also accommodation.
To receive the payment, people need to relocate 90 minutes away from their current residence.
This means Pakenham residents could move to Shepparton or vise versa.
“It has really encouraged those in the metropolitan areas to hop out into a regional area and have a go at picking, packing, and pruning,“ Ms Gilligan said.
There are four sites for MADEC Harvest Trail services in Victoria including Sunraysia, Mid-Murray, Goulburn Valley and Gippsland.
