July 11, 2017
The Federal Government will offer new incentives for unemployed people to undertake seasonal work like fruit picking.
Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien, says the trial will support people looking for work and businesses keen to give workers a start.
“This is a win-win for local job seekers and growers in the horticultural industry, as growers are often in need of short-term labour during peak times,” Mr O’Brien said.
“Horticultural work offers excellent practical opportunities for people keen to build their skills and gain work experience.”
The Seasonal Work Incentives Trial offers financial incentives to help unemployed people take up work opportunities for up to six weeks per year.
The $27.5 million trial began on July 1 and will run for two years.
It is capped at 7,600 participants.
The trial’s incentives are available to eligible Newstart and Youth Allowance (Other) recipients who have been receiving those payments continuously for at least three months, and are participating in jobactive, Transition to Work or Disability Employment Services.
The incentives include:
- Participants can earn up to $5,000 each year from qualifying seasonal horticultural work without it being assessed under the social security income test
- Eligibility for a Seasonal Work Living Away and Travel Allowance of up to $300 each year, if they undertake qualifying seasonal horticultural work more than 120 kilometres from their home
- Employment service providers will receive a Provider Seasonal Work Incentive Payment of $100 per week for up to six weeks a year for each eligible person they place with eligible farmers
Further information about the trial is available online.
