More working hours allowed to student visa holders for agricultural job

International students working in harvesting jobs would get more working hours even during the semester study period.

Read Also: Farm work in Australia, another option for students, temporary visa holders

International students working in the agricultural sector would be able to get extra shifts as the Australian government has made flexible work arrangements to combat the ongoing labor shortage in agriculture.

With this new flexible work arrangement for student visa holders will be able to work more than the usual 40 hours per fortnight limit during the semester if they are working in the agricultural sector, Australian Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said. 

During the COVID-19 first wave last year, the Australian government had made such flexibility for international students to help the retails and healthcare industries to meet the worker demand. International students working for retail giants such as Woolworths, Coles along with aged care and health sector were allowed to work extra hours even during their study semester. Usually, international students can work only up to 40 hours per fortnight when their classes on.
Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services, and Multicultural Affairs Minister Alex Hawke believes this change would not just give temporary visa holders the ability to earn more income, but also help farmers in this harvest season.

The Australian agricultural industry is still struggling to find workers for this harvesting season despite offering relocation packages by the government.

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