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In addition to the business adaptation funding that covers accommodation and machinery, you can also apply for funding to cover the above, please see below a brief summary of the funding:
- $1,000 and $100,000 (up to 100 per cent of total eligible project costs) to induct workers into new job roles and deliver re-training
- Up to $200 per day for 90 days to offset the costs of worker accommodation for workers who have to relocate from another area
- $50 per day for 90 days to cover travel to work costs and $500 per employee relocation costs
- Job roles must be advertised for a minimum period on the Working for Victoria platform or another approved job advertising platform to test the local labour market first before this support can be accessed
- We encourage members to register for this program and discuss with a case manager their needs and eligibility in preparation for harvest
Applications close 31 December 2020 (or once fund is expended), please connect with an AWP Case Manager by emailing
Visit the Agriculture Victoria website for further information...
The Ag Workforce Plan presentation is available for download here...
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Face coverings for Victorians: Must be a fitted face mask that covers nose and mouth - not a face shield, mask etc. A week's grace period before the rule is enforced.
Second Step for Melbourne restrictions - Find out about the current restrictions in place. How to stay safe and well. Find out what you can do to reduce the risk and stop the spread of COVID-19. Visit the DHHS website for more information...
COVIDSafe Plan now required for regional Victorian businesses- From 11:59 on 13 September 2020, it is mandatory for every Victorian business to have a COVIDSafe Plan. To ensure compliance, random spot checks are underway in metropolitan Melbourne and will commence in regional Victoria from 29 September 2020. Your COVIDSafe Plan must set out:
- your actions to help prevent the introduction of coronavirus (COVID-19) in your workplace
- the level of face covering or personal protective equipment (PPE) required for your workforce
- how you will prepare for, and respond to, a suspected or confirmed case of coronavirus (COVID-19) in your workplace
- this plan must demonstrate how you will meet all the requirements set out by the Victorian Government. Some higher-risk industries or workplaces have additional requirements of employers and employees.
Businesses must review and update their COVIDSafe Plans routinely, especially when restrictions or public health advice changes. Organisations with multiple worksites must complete a COVIDSafe Plan for each worksite. For more information and for templates and guidance on how to create your COVIDSafe Plan, visit the Business Victoria website.
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Make sure you check out this new video from Cherryhill Orchards about Last minute crop load intervention on sweet cherries..
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Hort Innovation is inviting growers and supply chain members from the cherry, summerfruit and table grape industries to join the Strategic Investment Advisory Panel (SIAP) for these respective sectors. Hort Innovation are keen to hear from a diverse group, including applicants of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds and from small, medium and large operations.
The SIAP is a panel of industry representatives that provides advice to Hort Innovation in relation to industry research and development funded by industry levies and contributions from the Australian Government, and marketing investments funded by industry levies.
Industry members interested in finding out more about the SIAP can contact Hort Innovation's Industry Strategic Partner for the cherry, summerfruit and table grape industries, Dumisani Mhlanga on 0447 091 186 or via email at
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Media Release 17th Sep 2020
Jaclyn Symes, Minister for Agriculture
The Victorian Government has announced targeted funding to attract seasonal workers to regional Victoria and ensure farmers have the hands-on-deck they need to get produce to plate.
Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today announced a $17 million package to help address seasonal workforce shortages brought on by the coronavirus pandemic and reiterated the call for farmers to register their workforce needs on the Working for Victoria platform to be matched with eager jobseekers.
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GP Graders have produced this useful little tool to check the size and colour of cherries. It’s our gift to you in a tough year. GP Graders is offering 1 free gauge to anyone involved in the cherry business.
Click here and enter your details to receive your free gauge...
Join VCA: complete the Membership application form
and return it to: VCA Secretary, PO Box 612, Mooroopna, 3629
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