AUCKLAND (NZ Punjabi News Service): New Zealand government has blunted the Australian government’s attempt to entice the Kiwi seasonal workers by offering them additional benefits if they come to work during agricultural harvest season.
In an attempt to strengthen their agricultural harvesting industry, in advertisement on Australian Government jobseeker website, government promised Kiwis $2000 if workers complete six weeks' work of harvesting (20 hours a week minimum) in Australia's regional areas.
"From 1 November 2020 to 31 December 2021, relocation assistance will be available for people to move and take up jobs in agriculture, including harvest work," the advertisement says.
"You may be eligible for financial assistance to help with the costs of travel and accommodation when you relocate to take up a short-term agricultural work opportunity." The willing workers will need to be at least 18 years of age.
Another advertisement says if willing workers complete the allocated harvesting commitments, they "could be enjoying a juicy Christmas bonus." Accommodation is also on offer.
Due to COVID – 19, New Zealand is facing shortage of seasonal workers as agricultural harvest season is set to peak. However, New Zealand government has blunted the offer by saying that workers who will go Australia will have to pay for their isolation period on their return.
New Zealand Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi said that workers coming back from Australia after the harvest season there will have to pay $3000 as isolation fee as they had to remain in isolation due to COVID - 19.