It says that in November, the ACTU, AWU and NUW submitted various claims to vary the Horticulture Award 2010 as part of the award review process of the Fair Work Commission. They are comprehensive and deliver worker evidence in support of their claims. the industry body believes that in a price-taking environment, the potential impacts on farm profitability and even viability are very real.

The union claims are:

• Four-hour minimum engagement of casuals (at present there is no minimum period for engagement of casuals);
• Conversion of casual employees to full time or part time after six or twelve months employment;
• Four-hour minimum engagement of part-time employees (at present there is no minimum engagement for part time employees);
• Overtime rates and penalties for casual employees on the same terms as full time employees;
• A requirement that when employing casuals they are to be advised of a number of matters including likely hours;
• Require additional hours to be granted to existing casuals and part time employees before employing more casual and part time employees.

To be prepared for hearings at the Fair Work Commission, Voice of Horticulture says it needs to gather evidence in relation to the impact that these changes would bring. The survey is a key process in gathering evidence. It is based on a questionnaire developed by Growcom.

The organisation says it needs a significant number of responses (2,000+) from growers as well as smaller number of witnesses prepared to appear before the Commission.

Commission hearings are scheduled for 14-24 March, but briefings will need to be complete by 21 February.

Voice of Horticulture asks that growers complete the attached survey as soon as possible – no later than 31 January 2016.

To take part in the survey, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2MJP7G2