Seventy-seven seasonal workers from Vanuatu and Timor Leste will arrive in Cardinia Shire around late August to help local farmers harvest their asparagus.

Melbourne business The Connect Group will employ and sponsor the workers as part of the Federal Government’s Seasonal Worker program, which is delivered by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.

With not enough Australian jobseekers available at this time of year to meet seasonal demand, the program allows agricultural employers in Cardinia Shire to get the workers they need to harvest the Shire’s plentiful asparagus crops.

Participants will work on local farms in Koo Wee Rup and Catani including Vizzarri Farms, Cafresco Organics, Dalmore Golden Mile and Deep Creek Organics. They will stay until around January, depending on crop yields.

It is the third year that Cardinia Shire has hosted Seasonal Worker program participants. Mayor Cr Brett Owen said Council is once again looking forward to welcoming the workers to the area.

“This fantastic initiative has so many benefits for everyone involved,” Cr Owen said.

“It boosts the productivity of our local asparagus producers and helps the home economies of the workers. They receive a good income and great life and employment experience.

“They also give back to our local economy, which is great for Cardinia Shire businesses.

“And as a Shire which embraces cultural diversity, it’s wonderful for us to host the participants and learn more about their lives and cultures,” Cr Owen said.

“The fact that 37 participants are returning to Cardinia Shire for the second and even third time as part of the program shows how hospitable our residents are, and how successful the initiative is for all parties,” Cr Owen added.

“Council encourages residents to make the participants feel welcome, and if you see them around, why not give them a friendly hello!”

The Connect Group’s Managing Director Michael Fryszer says participants will stay in accommodation on the farms at which they are working.

“Some Cardinia Shire host employers are even building accommodation for the workers, which shows how committed they are to the program,” Mr Fryszer said.

“It’s a win-win arrangement for everyone involved. It’s a great economic and cultural exchange, and a really innovative and mutually beneficial way to give foreign aid.”

Mr Fryszer explained that the jobs are advertised in Australia first before the workers are recruited from Pacific Island countries and Timor Leste.

“Insufficient applications are received locally to fill demand, given the work is so labour intensive and harvesting often takes place at night.

“So there’s absolutely no issue of jobs being taken away from local jobseekers,” Mr Fryszer said.

For more information on the Federal Government’s Seasonal Worker program visit www.deewr.gov.au/seasonal-worker-program