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Regional Australia left behind in migration reform with federal Labor government lacking clear strategy to address worker shortages

Labor government's migration reforms were criticised for lacking a clear strategy to address worker shortages in regional Australia, to support the workforce of the future in reaching the industry's goal of $100 billion in value by 2030.

By news@gippsland - 27th April 2023 - Back to News

Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, believes the Federal Labor government's reforms of the migration system are a start, but lack a clear strategy to help combat widespread worker shortages in rural, regional, and remote Australia. Mr Littleproud said The Nationals were eager to have a genuine conversation with the government, to help form a regional strategy that would build on targeted reforms and programs launched by the former Coalition government, which were aimed at addressing widespread worker and skills shortages.

Labor's decision to scrap the Ag Visa is a huge setback for farmers and their $100 billion goal

Ag Visa solution

Mr Littleproud said, "This is why we introduced the dedicated Agriculture Visa, which would have helped alleviate the severe worker shortages that regional Australia, and the entire supply chain, is currently facing, while also creating a new pathway to permanent residency through the Ag Visa. At last year's job summit, we built on the introduction of the Ag Visa by highlighting the need for a regional visa to create an additional pathway for permanent residence in the regions."

"The Ag Visa was the biggest structural reform to the agricultural workforce in our nation's history - and would have assisted in securing a workforce of the future to support this sector in reaching its goal of $100 billion in value by 2030. However, Labor's decision to scrap this visa is unconscionable and is a massive kick in the guts for our farmers." Mr Littleproud said.

Evidence-based skill shortages

During Thursday's announcement, Home Affairs Minister Clare O'Neil said the government would take an evidence-based approach to identifying industries with skills shortages. Mr Littleproud said the evidence and impact of worker shortages, not just in agriculture, but in a variety of industries including care, construction, and engineering, was already plain to see in regional areas.

"By bringing in this step, the Labor government has added another level of bureaucracy in identifying skill shortages. If they just left the city and visited regional areas, like The Nationals do every day, they would see the evidence of worker shortages for themselves."

"The challenges that we face in regional Australia are real and we want to be part of those solutions in a constructive way. We know that workforce shortages in our nation are far more acutely felt in regional communities. That's why The Nationals are here, and willing to be part of any constructive or practical solutions." Mr Littleproud said.

Pictures from Agriculture Victoria Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• Victorian Auditor-General warns Gippsland faces energy insecurity amid Labor’s mismanaged renewable energy transition
  Victorian Auditor-General warns Gippsland faces energy insecurity as Labor mismanages the renewable energy transition, delaying projects, electricity reliability, raising prices, causing gas shortages, and threatening jobs and households.
• Darren Chester urges Dicky Bill workers, families to attend Maffra Support and Services Expo on 10 December 2025
  Federal Member Darren Chester urges Dicky Bill workers, families to attend Maffra Support & Services Expo December 10 for employment, training, financial, and wellbeing assistance from 20 local exhibitors.
• Tribunal warns Albanese government's bill removes veterans' rights to review bravery awards and undermines Defence Honours system integrity
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal has accused the Albanese government of removing veterans' rights to review bravery awards, warning proposed reforms undermine fairness, independence, and recognition of Australia's war heroes.
• Tim Bull urges state government to fund Surf Life Saving, preventing East Gippsland ratepayers covering government shortfalls
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull urges state government to fund Surf Life Saving Victoria, warning councils face doubled contributions while new Emergency Services levy strains East Gippsland and Wellington budgets.
• Darren Chester slams Albanese government veterans medal review limit, undermining Tribunal independence
  Shadow Minister Darren Chester has condemned Labor's legislation imposing a 20-year limit on veterans' medal reviews, arguing it undermines the Tribunal's independence and disenfranchises veterans and families seeking fair recognition.
• Melina Bath urges Allan government to end delays and deliver the long-promised Cape to Cape Plan
  Pressure is growing on the Allan government to end years of delays and release the Cape to Cape Resilience Plan, ensuring urgent coastal protection and reflecting community feedback for Inverloch.
• Melina Bath blames Allan government as Victoria's public housing waitlist surges amid worsening housing crisis
  Victoria's housing crisis deepens as public housing waitlists surge past 60,000. Melina Bath blames the Allan government's inaction, rising taxes, and mismanagement for worsening homelessness and unaffordable rents across the state.
• Tim Bull warns Victorian government policies leave record fuel loads, risking another mega-fire
  Tim Bull warns Victorian government’s reduced fuel reduction policies and record bushfire fuel loads are creating conditions for another mega-fire, urging urgent action to protect communities and support firefighters’ efforts.
• Coalition demands Albanese government regulate veterans’ advocacy sector after damning Senate committee report release
  The Coalition urges urgent laws to regulate veterans’ advocacy, citing unethical practices, rising commercial providers, data risks, and unmet Royal Commission reforms to better protect vulnerable veterans and their families.
• Darren Chester slams Albanese government over bill limiting veterans' rights to appeal medal and bravery decisions
  Shadow Minister Darren Chester has condemned the Albanese government's proposed Defence Honours Bill, claiming it restricts veterans' rights to appeal medal decisions and undermines the independent Tribunal's role in recognising bravery.
• Latrobe City invites community feedback on draft Streetscape Strategy to enhance town centres until 20 October 2025
  Latrobe City Council has released its draft Streetscape Strategy for public feedback, aiming to enhance town aesthetics, accessibility, and sustainability through improved design, maintenance, and consistent public amenities.
• Future of Orbost Project strengthens water access, supporting agricultural innovation and long-term regional growth
  The Future of Orbost Project supports farmers by clarifying water availability, facilitating licence transfers, and building resilience, driving innovation, productivity, diversification, and sustainable long-term growth in East Gippsland.
• Latrobe City Council reviews community feedback on draft Streetscape Strategy to refine public space improvements and concerns
  Latrobe City Council has concluded community consultation on the draft Streetscape Strategy, reviewing feedback on carpark concerns, public space improvements, and long-term enhancements before finalising recommendations.
• Bass Coast Shire Council urges Victorian government, LSV to ensure lifeguard patrols continue safely, without cuts
  Bass Coast Shire Council urges Victorian government and LSV to guarantee lifeguard patrols, warning proposed funding hike strains budgets while beaches remain high-risk, with recent drownings highlighting urgent safety needs.
• Gippsland’s growth at risk without urgent government investment in housing, infrastructure, warns One Gippsland Chair
  One Gippsland warns growth could stall without urgent investment in housing and infrastructure to support workforce, energy projects, and address social, affordable housing shortages across the region.
• East Gippsland Shire invites community feedback on draft Open Space Strategy to protect parks, reserves and waterways
  East Gippsland Shire Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Open Space Strategy, a long-term plan to improve parks, reserves, trails, and waterways, with consultation open until 1 October 2025.
• Danny O'Brien welcomes progress on Sealers Cove track repairs but slams years of Labor delays at Wilsons Prom
  Danny O'Brien welcomed long-overdue progress on Sealers Cove track repairs at Wilsons Prom but criticised Labor for years of delays, saying Gippsland deserves timely investment in vital tourism infrastructure and facilities.
• Martin Cameron says Yallourn job cuts devastate workers and mark first blow in Power Station closure
  Up to 40 Yallourn Power Station jobs will be cut by 2025, sparking concern from Martin Cameron over Labor's failure to support the Latrobe Valley through the energy transition.
• Victoria leaders tour proposed Hastings terminal highlighting region’s central role in offshore wind future
  Regional leaders toured the proposed Hastings Renewable Energy Terminal, highlighting its crucial role in Victoria’s offshore wind strategy and clean-energy transition, with industry, government and communities collaborating for regional benefits.
• Danny O’Brien warns 33 percent crime rise highlights Gippsland commuters’ safety concerns, lacking adequate PSO protection
  Crime on Gippsland public transport has risen nearly 33% in 12 months, raising concerns about PSO coverage and regional commuter safety under the Allan Labor government.
• Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, $1.768M federal funding restores vital community infrastructure
  Bass Coast Council’s Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, receiving $1.768 million federal funding, restoring safe access, supporting local residents, industry, emergency services, with tendering expected early 2026.
• Southern Rural Water celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 while linking people, culture, nature, and sustainable regional tourism
  World Tourism Day 2025 highlights water’s role in southern Victoria, connecting people, culture, recreation, agriculture, and sustainable tourism while supporting communities, ecosystems, and Traditional Owner cultural heritage.
• Darren Chester applauds Metung Primary Footy Colours Day, showcasing student enthusiasm and schools' vital role in regional life
  Darren Chester joined Tim Bull at Metung Primary Footy Colours Day, praising student enthusiasm, community spirit, and schools' vital role in fostering connections, participation, and regional community life through fun events
• Tim Bull trashes misused Treasurer’s Advance as Allan government wastes $9M on costly failed camping trial
  The Allan government spent $9 million in emergency funds on a failed free-camping trial, creating "ghost bookings" and hurting local businesses, prompting Nationals MP Tim Bull to condemn the misuse and demand accountability.
• East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
  East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies.
• Eat Drink Play Gippsland celebrates local flavours, award-winning cheeses, and culinary creations from passionate regional makers
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland showcases top restaurants, award-winning cheeses, and artisanal delights. From snacks to gourmet dishes, the festival celebrates local flavours and passionate makers, offering something delicious for every palate.
• Baw Baw Shire Council approves Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy following community feedback
  Baw Baw Council has adopted its new Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, following extensive community consultation to guide safe, vibrant, and accessible public spaces.
• Danny O'Brien says Gippsland roads among state's most dangerous after years of neglect under Allan Labor government
  Danny O'Brien says new AusRAP data shows many Gippsland roads are unsafe after years of Labor neglect, criticising the government for lowering speed limits instead of properly fixing deteriorating roads.
• Victoria’s crime crisis worsens as police numbers fall, offences rise, and station hours are reduced under Labor government
  Victoria’s crime crisis worsens under Labor with 368 fewer police, rising offences, unsolved cases, reduced station hours, and retail theft surging, prompting calls for proper resourcing and crime prevention.
• Gippsland CFA volunteers still wait for critical fire station upgrades amid $55M Labor funding cuts
  Gippsland CFA volunteers face years-long delays for safe, modern fire stations as Labor cuts $55 million, reducing equipment, compensation, and infrastructure, putting communities at risk and demanding urgent funding.
• Gippslanders sound alarm over digital ID rollout, quiet steps toward a nationwide control system
  Australians voice growing concern over the creeping rollout of Digital ID, warning it's becoming mandatory despite government claims of voluntariness, sparking fears of surveillance, control, and loss of personal freedom.
• Latrobe City Council endorses priority advocacy projects to shape 2026–27 Federal Budget submission delegation
  Latrobe City Council has endorsed priority advocacy projects to shape its 2026/27 Federal Budget submission, seeking targeted national investment to drive economic transition, infrastructure delivery, job creation and long-term regional growth.
• Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on draft 10-year open space strategy for future planning
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its draft Open Space Strategy, shaping a 10-year plan to guide investment, protect natural spaces, and enhance community wellbeing. Consultation closes Friday 3 October 2025.
• Danny O’Brien warns Gippslanders to stay alert as fake government email and text scams increase
  Danny O’Brien urges residents to stay vigilant against sophisticated government-themed email and text scams, verify messages using Scam Safe Check, and report suspicious activity to protect the community.
• Darren Chester supports Tribunal decision to defend veterans' right, opposing Albanese government plan limiting Acts of Gallantry review
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will defend veterans' rights at a Senate inquiry, opposing the Albanese government's plan to impose a 20-year limit on reviewing acts of gallantry.
• Community invited to join Project Reference Group shaping East Gippsland’s future aquatic strategy and facilities planning
  East Gippsland community members are invited to join a Project Reference Group to help shape the new Aquatic Strategy, guiding future facility planning, investment, and service delivery across the shire.
• Tim Bull encourages Gippsland East communities to apply for Victorian government’s Tiny Towns Fund Grants until 4 February 2026
  Tim Bull urges Gippsland East communities to apply for the Tiny Towns Fund, offering $5,000-$50,000 grants to support tourism, liveability, and local projects for towns under 5,000 residents.
• Melina Bath slams Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for ignoring Gippsland farmers' struggles under Labor's tax regime
  Melina Bath criticised Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for refusing to advocate for Gippsland farmers, citing VFF survey results showing overwhelming concern over new taxes and Labor's disregard for regional agriculture.
• David Littleproud warns vegetable growers of crisis as compliance costs soar, confidence collapses and exits loom
  Nationals leader David Littleproud warns Australia's food security is at risk, with two in five growers considering leaving amid rising compliance costs, financial strain, and Labor policies undermining farming viability.
• Tim Bull says Victoria can’t manage current parks, criticising government plans to further expand network
  Tim Bull says expanding Victoria’s national parks is irresponsible, arguing existing parks are neglected, understaffed and overrun by pests, weeds and feral animals, with reduced funding making effective land management increasingly impossible.
• Darren Chester met Tom Harms in Canberra, praising his WorldSkills selection as testament to talent and community support
  Maffra apprentice Tom Harms will represent Australia in Electrical Installations at the 2026 WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, after excelling through national trials. Darren Chester praised his achievement as Gippsland talent showcased globally.
• Darren Chester's Christmas reflection mixes Gippsland joy with national grief, unity, gratitude and hope for Australia
  Darren Chester reflects on Gippsland Christmas, mourning Bondi Beach victims, appreciating essential workers, and urging unity, gratitude, and hope while wishing everyone a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year.
• Baw Baw Shire Council secures funding for four key road safety projects through TAC and federal Blackspot Programs
  Baw Baw Shire Council secured TAC and Federal Blackspot funding for four key road safety projects in Warragul and Drouin, targeting high-risk areas with upgrades to improve safety for all road users.
• South Gippsland Eat, Drink Play Festival celebrates local food, drinks, live music, kids' activities, and outdoor fun and other updates
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns this spring at Leongatha Railway Precinct, showcasing regional food, drink, and live music. With daytime tastings, evening entertainment, and kids' activities, it's a family-friendly celebration of Gippsland.
• Martin Cameron says new emergency services tax replaces fire levy, adding enormous pressure to struggling small businesses
  Latrobe Valley small businesses face soaring costs as Labor's new Emergency Services Tax replaces the Fire Services Levy, with Nationals warning it punishes regional communities and fuels insolvencies amid financial mismanagement.
• Latrobe City welcomes proposed $10B Morwell data centre boosting economy, jobs, and industry
  Latrobe City Council welcomes Keppel’s proposed $10 billion Morwell data centre, Australia’s largest, leveraging existing energy infrastructure to create jobs, support workforce transition, and drive long-term economic and industrial growth.
• Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local artisans, makers, and small businesses this holiday season
  Federal Member Darren Chester encourages Gippslanders to shop local this Christmas, supporting artisans, makers, and small businesses like Emporium 3844, boosting the regional economy and celebrating community talent.
• Danny O'Brien warns faulty firefighting vehicles are leaving local CFA Brigades under pressure ahead of bushfire season
  Danny O'Brien has criticised the Allan Labor government for failing to repair faulty firefighting vehicles, warning the issue is placing pressure on CFA brigades and reducing Gippsland's preparedness for bushfire season.
• Six-year Thurra River campground closure triggers renewed demands for urgent government action before summer
  Tim Bull says East Gippslanders face another summer without Thurra River’s main campground, urging the Minister to expedite long-delayed approvals after six years, stressing local businesses rely on its reopening.