The Horticulture Industry Labour Agreement is a game-changer for Australian employers in the agriculture sector, allowing them to sponsor skilled overseas workers for up to four years or even offer a pathway to permanent residency. This agreement is tailored to bridge labour shortages by bringing in skilled professionals across 31 identified occupations. However, the terms and conditions are set and non-negotiable, with concessions that vary based on visa type and regional location.

Who Can You Sponsor? 

Under this agreement, employers can nominate skilled overseas workers for the following visas:

• Skills in Demand Visa (Subclass 482)
• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (Subclass 494)
• Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (Subclass 186)

These visa options ensure that businesses across different regions can access the workforce they need to maintain productivity and growth.

The Essential Roles in Horticulture 

The agreement covers a diverse range of occupations, from agronomy to mechanics, ensuring that every aspect of the horticulture industry is supported. Key roles include:

Specialist Agricultural Experts

• Irrigation Designer/Manager (ANZSCO 234111) – Designing and managing efficient water distribution systems
• Agronomist (ANZSCO 234112) – Ensuring soil and crop health
• Entomologist (ANZSCO 234518) – Studying pest control and plant protection
• Horticulture Grower (ANZSCO 070499) – Overseeing large-scale plant production

Technical & Management Roles

• Horticulture Farm Manager (ANZSCO 070499) – Managing farm operations and staff
• Quality Assurance Manager (ANZSCO 139914) – Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards
• Mechanical Engineer (ANZSCO 233512) – Overseeing machinery and irrigation systems
• Biosecurity Officer (ANZSCO 311399) – Protecting crops from pests and diseases

Hands-on Farm & Equipment Roles

• Truck Driver (ANZSCO 733111) – Transporting produce and equipment
• Mobile Plant Operator (ANZSCO 721111) – Handling heavy machinery on farms
• Fitter and Welder (ANZSCO 323213) – Maintaining and repairing farm equipment
• Maintenance Electrician (ANZSCO 341111) – Ensuring farm electrical systems run smoothly

These skilled workers contribute to every aspect of the industry, from planting to production, and from research to distribution.

English Language Requirements 

Overseas workers must meet the following minimum English proficiency levels:

• Subclass 482 Visa: IELTS overall score of 5.0, with a minimum of 4.0 in each component
• Subclass 186 & 494 Visas: IELTS overall score of 5.0, with a minimum of 4.5 in each component

Skills & Qualifications 

For standard skilled occupations, applicants must meet the skill and qualification requirements of the relevant visa program.

For non-standard skilled occupations, a skills assessment by VETASSESS may be required to verify expertise and experience.

Salary & Employment Conditions 

Employers must meet salary thresholds to ensure fair compensation for skilled overseas workers:

• Workers in Category 3 regional locations must earn at least 90% of the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (TSMIT) for Subclass 494 visas.
• Workers on Subclass 482 and 186 visas must earn at least 90% of the Core Skilled Income Threshold (CSIT).
• Employment must be full-time and in line with National Employment Standards.

Age Requirements 

• No age limit for Subclass 482 visa applicants.
• For Subclass 186 and 494 visas, applicants must be under 50 years old at the time of application.

Final Thoughts: Growing Opportunities in Horticulture 

The Horticulture Industry Labour Agreement provides a win-win solution for both employers and skilled overseas workers. It helps Australian farms access essential talent while offering international workers the chance to build a future in Australia.

Need expert guidance? Reach out today – Growmore Immigration!