“AUSVEG has repeatedly called for reforms to increase accountability in relation to employment in our industry,” said AUSVEG National Communications Manager, Shaun Lindhe. “The majority of growers in our industry conduct their businesses fairly and in accordance with the law, and they have had enough of rogue operators whose selfish actions and unconscionable conduct hurt vulnerable workers and damage the reputations of everyone in our sector.”

He added, “AUSVEG stands firmly behind all growers who operate their businesses lawfully and believes that those who shirk the law and exploit workers need to be held responsible for their actions. AUSVEG is on the public record calling for reform of the labour hire industry, and our organisation supports any measure that protects farm workers and the vast majority of growers who treat their workers fairly.” 

“Rogue labour hire firms who knowingly mistreat workers employed in the vegetable industry must be held to account to protect vulnerable labourers and to prevent the actions of these firms from continuing to drag this sector’s good name through the mud.”

“Local and overseas workers play a vital role in the Australian horticulture industry, especially during peak seasonal periods, and ensuring their safety and wellbeing is of the utmost importance if they are going to continue to contribute to the success of our industry.”

“Enough is enough,” Lindhe said. “We need to ensure that any mistreatment of workers is stamped out of our industry and that the reputations of our growers who are fully compliant with the law are protected.”