Viterra is investing in short term accommodation for local seasonal workers following the South Australian Government’s move to temporarily streamline the development and planning application process.
A press conference to announce the initiative was held on Monday at Viterra’s purpose built laboratory in Thebarton, attended by Deputy Premier Vickie Chapman and Minister for Agriculture David Basham.
At the event, Viterra’s Chief Operations Officer James Murray thanked the South Australian Government for its help in fast tracking the programme.
“South Australia is expecting a promising harvest this year, which is great news for South Australian grain growers,” James says.
“We need to recruit around 1500 seasonal workers to help bring the harvest in and keep our supply chain open for local growers and buyers in Australia and overseas.
“Local workers are more critical than ever, due to current travel restrictions for interstate and overseas applicants. They need accommodation nearby, so this initiative by the South Australian Government to fast track the development and planning process for temporary housing will make an invaluable difference in attracting people to apply.”
Viterra anticipates that through its network, local growers will be able to access key export markets for a crop that is currently worth up to $3.5 billion to the South Australian economy.
“We have had a strong season exporting South Australian grain to international markets, and are looking forward to another busy shipping season with demand for grain from our network,” James says.
“We have already received considerable export bookings for the coming season, which is a true commitment and huge vote of confidence in South Australian grain from buyers all over the world.”
Viterra’s harvest jobs are available across 55 sites in South Australia and western Victoria in a range of hands on roles. Viterra offers good rates of pay and applicants don’t require experience as Viterra provides full on the job training.
“It’s a great time to join our business and we encourage anyone who’s interested in short term work to apply,” says James.