New agricultural permits available from Friday 25 September!

23 September 2020

JUSTIN CLANCY WELCOMES AGRICULTURAL WORKERS CODE AND IMPROVED PERMITS

 Member for Albury Justin Clancy today welcomed the inclusion of the new Agricultural Workers Code into NSW Public Health Orders relating to COVID-19.

“Importantly, those with an Agricultural Worker Permit may cross the border by land – this means they don’t need to enter NSW via Sydney airport,” said Mr Clancy.

Mr Clancy said the move paves the way for the region’s farmers to make the most of what will be a critical first harvest following three years or more of record-breaking drought.

“Albury Electorate farmers make a vital contribution to the state’s $15.9 billion primary industries sector, and to the local community and our regional economy.

“It’s great to have this news heading into the harvest season, which will allow the free movement of agricultural workers with permits across state borders,” said Mr Clancy.

“The NSW Government has spearheaded the discussion on this issue, championing the introduction of the Agricultural Workers Code and now it has been the first to activate.”

Mr Clancy said the new NSW Agricultural Worker Permit will provide an avenue for eligible works from the agriculture industry to move into NSW provided they meet the permit requirements.

“A number of requirements must be met before a worker is provided a permit. This is to ensure we are adopting sensible and practical COVIDSafe principles.”

“This includes having not been in a COVID19 restricted or area of concern, ability to self-isolate when not working and having documentation to support the permit,” said Mr Clancy.

Agricultural worker permits will be available from www.service.nsw.gov.au from Friday, 25 September.