Strengthening the Harvest: Why the HILA is a Game-Changer for the Agribusiness Supply Chain
For many Australian agribusinesses, ‘getting the product to market’ is a challenge just as significant as growing it.
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has recently confirmed that the Horticulture Industry Labour Agreement (HILA) is available not only to growers but also to businesses throughout the supply chain, including those in transport and logistics.
If your business manages associated transport, cold-chain logistics, or produce handling functions that support the distribution of horticultural goods, the HILA is a viable tool for your workforce strategy.
What Makes the HILA Unique?
The HILA is a formal agreement with the Australian Government that allows businesses to sponsor overseas workers for specific roles that are generally unavailable under standard skilled migration programs.
- Access to Essential Roles: You can sponsor Skill Level 4 and 5 positions (semi-skilled and low-skilled) that are typically “off-limits” on standard Core Skills Occupation List (i.e Irrigationist Assistants, Tractor Drivers, Section Supervisors, and etc).
- 10% Salary Concessions: Employers may access a concession allowing for a salary at 90% of the Core Skills Income Threshold (CSIT), provided the pay remains at least at the Australian Market Salary Rate (AMSR).
- A Defined Path to Residency: The HILA provides a clear pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) for workers, even in semi-skilled roles, provided they are under 50 years of age.
- Stable Workforce Strategy: Most agreements are valid for 5 years, offering your business a stable, long-term framework for workforce planning.
Key “Off-Farm” Roles for Horticulture Logistics Providers
The HILA covers 31 specific occupations. For the horticulture logistics and supply chain businesses, these roles are the most significant “hidden gems”:
- Facility Supervisor (ANZSCO 070499): The technical lead of the packing shed or distribution hub. They oversee day-to-day production, manage workflows, and ensure that safety and quality standards are met across the facility.
- Forklift Driver (ANZSCO 721311): Often the most difficult role to fill in a packing shed or warehouse, and nearly impossible to sponsor via standard visas.
- Cold Storage Manager (ANZSCO 149999): Critical for maintaining the ‘cold chain’ integrity of temperature-sensitive produce.
- Truck Driver (ANZSCO 733111): A vital role for regional transport hubs dedicated to moving horticultural goods.
- Mobile Plant Operator (ANZSCO 721111): Required for the specialised machinery used in large-scale distribution and bulk handling facilities.
Summary for Business Owners
If you operate a cold storage facility, a regional transport company, or a produce handling hub, you are no longer excluded from the skilled migration system. The HILA is a specialised option that recognises your business as a critical pillar of Australia’s agricultural industry.
Contact Us
Applying for a Labour Agreement requires a detailed submission demonstrating your business’s specific needs and its direct link to the horticulture supply chain. If you would like to explore whether your logistics or transport business qualifies for the HILA, please contact our migration team at Nevett Ford to schedule a strategic consultation.
