Ahead of what is predicted to be a record spring harvest, Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall has encouraged Aussies to take up on-farm employment to help primary producers overcome a COVID-induced workforce shortage.
Mr Marshall said the state's agricultural industry was facing a labour shortfall, and travelers and out-of-work New South Welshmen could be well placed to help once stay-at-home orders were lifted.
"I'm putting out a call to arms for adventure seekers and job seekers alike to head to the bush for a bumper harvest," Mr Marshall said.
"Our farmers are hurting from international and state border closures and it's critical they have the workforce needed to produce our food and fibre.
"Agriculture stops for no-one. If we don't put the necessary measures in place to get more boots on the ground in the coming months fruit will rot and crops will waste.
"Last year's harvest was huge and all signs point to an even bigger spring this time around. This is the grand finale, the big dance, the Olympics of harvests for our broadacre cropping communities and you can be a part of these tumbling records.
"We must do all we can to keep communities safe from COVID, but I'd love to see people head west when we're out of lockdown for a truly unique experience. It is tough work, but experience isn't necessary, it's great money and a great way to upskill.
"If you want to get your hands dirty the best place to start is our 'Help Harvest NSW' website which connects agriculture employers with anyone looking for work."
Grants of up to $10,000 are available for regional businesses to assist with the relocation costs of eligible skilled workers who move from metropolitan areas.
Mr Marshall said the NSW Government had implemented additional measures to help the state's farmers overcome the COVID-induced workforce shortage.
"I hope today's calls for reinforcements will complement the support we've already put in place," Mr Marshall said.
"To help bridge the shortage caused by border closures, the NSW Government has approved the arrival of more than 2,000 overseas agricultural workers, provided a 50% subsidy for their hotel quarantine costs and spearheaded the Ag Workers' Code."
