STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Mr RICK WILSON (O'Connor) (16:33): I rise today to draw attention to the serious impacts of the ministerial-directed delays in the processing of working holiday-maker visas are having on farmers, growers and regional businesses in my electorate of O'Connor. Industry has been blindsided. Without clear warning, explanation or certainty, the government has slowed visa processing times in the lead-up to harvest.

Harvest is due to commence in my electorate at the end of this month and will accelerate in October. Just this morning, Esperance grain grower Megan McDowall told ABC Perth Mornings that farms are already feeling under pressure. When expected workers fail to have their visas approved, families like Megan's and the existing local workforce end up working longer hours, increasing fatigue and placing greater strain on regional businesses.

WA's grain industry is a major contributor to the national economy, and my electorate of O'Connor is the nation's largest grain growing electorate. These seasonal workers are not displacing Australians. They fill genuine workforce shortages and many return for several years with their valuable skills and experience.

Despite repeated representations from regional MPs like myself, my constituents and industry peak bodies, the minister has failed to provide any clear answers. Regional electorates like O'Connor deserve certainty, transparency and a visa system that supports rather than undermines the industries that help feed and power Australia and the world.