Supply chain still flowing

Victorian agriculture leaders are laying the groundwork to ensure the supply chain can keep flowing despite borders shut on both sides.

Peak representative body Victorian Farmers Federation, VFF, entered into urgent negotiations with state governments last week to ensure truck drivers could still move freight interstate.

The New South Wales health minister issued a public health order last week to allow freight to move freely across borders. But VFF president David Jochinke said he hoped the borders would only be shut down as long as it took to flatten the coronavirus curve in Victoria.

“We’ve actually seen good engagement from government and government departments as well as our counterparts, other farming organisations in NSW, to make this successful,” he said.

“We hope the border closures will only be put in place until we can flatten the curve.

“People still need to follow social distancing and all the requirements in place.”

Mr Jochinke was concerned tightened border restrictions could affect the ability to attract seasonal workers across western Victoria during harvest.

“If you’re a seasonal worker who’s restricted, you’re not able to apply for a permit – that could potentially be an issue,” he said.

“We’re not sure how long restrictions are going to last, that’s going to be the real challenge for us and what alternative arrangements we will have to make if we come into a harvest period.”

Victorian truck drivers whose employers have a COVID-SAFE plan, can acquire a permit to travel into NSW and will not be required to self-isolate.

When entering South Australia, Victorian truck drivers are required to wear a face mask when interacting with the public and maintain records of close contacts.

They must also self-quarantine in South Australia when not undertaking work-related duties.