ACT welcomes simpler, more flexible RSE scheme

ACT is welcoming changes announced by the Government today that will simplify the RSE scheme, recognise employers with a good track record and give workers more freedom to move between recognised employers.

“Fruit doesn’t wait around for forms to be processed. When it’s ready to pick, growers need workers in the orchard. The Government has listened to growers who have been saying the RSE scheme has become too hard to use,” says ACT Agriculture spokesperson Andrew Hoggard.

“The scheme has done a lot for horticulture and viticulture. Exports have gone from $2.5 billion in 2007 to nearly $9 billion today. That growth is down to our growers, but they couldn’t have done it without people to pick and pack the crop.

“If an employer has run a good operation and looked after workers year after year, that should count for something. The graduated accreditation system announced today will recognise that.

“ACT put a commitment in the coalition agreement to lift the RSE cap and make quota allocation more flexible. The Government delivered the cap increase in 2024, taking it from 19,500 to 20,750. Today’s announcement is the next step.

“Our growers are bloody good at what they do. Give them access to workers when they need them and stop making them wade through paperwork, and they’ll grow and export more. That’s how New Zealand unlocks its potential.

“These changes deal with seasonal work. Year-round vacancies remain a problem, which is why ACT has proposed a Rural Workforce Visa. It would give people a three-year visa for farm work and let them shift to another accredited rural employer without applying all over again.”

ACT Immigration spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar says the safeguards included in the Government’s announcement are equally welcome.

“Most migrants come to New Zealand to work hard and support their families. Most employers follow the rules. But I have heard from migrants who are afraid to complain because their visa is tied to their job.

“If the person exploiting you is also the person your visa depends on, speaking up can put your ability to stay and work in New Zealand at risk.

“The Government’s decision to give RSE workers more flexibility to move between recognised employers will give them somewhere to go when things break down. It will also allow an employer with work available to take on someone who already knows the job.

“Clearer rules on deductions will help too. Workers should know before they arrive what they will pay for transport, insurance and accommodation. Employers should know exactly which costs can be recovered. That will make dubious deductions easier to spot.

“I also welcome the Government’s work with Pacific countries and employers on accommodation and pastoral care. RSE workers spend months away from home. Adding internet access may sound minor, but being able to call their families matters a lot to many people.”

Editor’s notes:
ACT’s Rural Workforce Visa policy can be found here.