Agriculture Visa – Subclass 403 (Seasonal Worker Program Stream)

The Subclass 403 visa, also known as the Temporary Work (International Relations) visa, includes several streams. One key stream is the Seasonal Worker Program (Pacific Labour Scheme), which allows citizens of eligible Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste to undertake short-term agricultural work in Australia.

1. Purpose:

   The program addresses seasonal labor shortages in Australia’s agricultural sector by allowing employers to hire workers from participating Pacific countries. It also helps overseas workers gain income and experience while supporting their local communities.

2. Eligible Countries:

   Citizens from countries such as Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu are generally eligible. The list of eligible countries is subject to change based on government agreements.

3. Approved Employers:

   Only employers approved by the Australian Government can hire workers under this program. They must demonstrate a genuine need for seasonal labor and comply with requirements for fair pay, safe working conditions, and proper accommodation.

4. Work Opportunities:

   Seasonal workers are employed in sectors such as horticulture, agriculture, and viticulture. Common tasks include fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, planting, pruning, and other crop-related seasonal work.

5. Duration:

   The visa is typically granted for up to six to nine months, depending on the agreement between Australia and the worker’s home country. Workers may return for future seasons if eligible and re-sponsored.

6. Accommodation and Welfare:

   Employers must provide suitable, safe, and hygienic accommodation, along with welfare support such as food access, transport arrangements, and health and safety measures throughout the worker’s stay.

7. Visa Conditions:

   Workers can only perform approved seasonal agricultural work and must comply with Australian workplace laws. At the end of the visa period, they are required to return to their home country.

The Seasonal Worker Program plays an essential role in supporting Australia’s agriculture industry while creating valuable economic opportunities for citizens of Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste.