Suitable Accommodation for Seasonal Worker Programs

Abstract

Accommodation is one of the largest expenses incurred by seasonal workers participating in Australia’s Seasonal Workers Program (SWP) and New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme (RSE). The cost of accommodation varies depending on the employer and availability in the area. The provision of ‘suitable’ accommodation is a condition of the pastoral care policy of both programs and is the responsibility of employers, not the workers. Workers must pay for this provided accommodation with deductions taken from their pay regardless of whether they are earning an income or not. There has been public criticism about accommodation for seasonal workers in Australia and New Zealand. Reports have shown that some Pacific workers have been placed in overcrowded and substandard lodgings with inadequate facilities and rates set too high (Bailey 2009:117–18).1 This In Brief looks at some of the challenges as well as changes that have recently occurred in relation to accommodation standards in the RSE and argues that such changes should also be considered in the SWP. More research is recommended as well as better oversight from governments.