Visa rule changes will allow skilled foreign workers hired for seasonal work on farms to stay in Australia for up to four years.
Sponsored sportsmen and artists will also be able to get new eight-year visas, under the changes announced by the Immigration Minister David Coleman on Monday.
The changes to the , which build on the Working Holiday Maker visa program and the Seasonal Worker Program, are designed to target workforce shortages.
“We want Australians filling Australian jobs but when this isn’t possible action is needed to ensure farmers can continue to operate,” Mr Coleman said in a statement.
In January, the that bring temporary farm workers into Australia, lifting the cap on the 462 visa for working backpackers from particular countries.
Under the latest changes, migrants hired for agriculture work will get four-year working visas but must remain in a specified region and work in some type of farming.
Sponsored artists and sportspeople, including footballers and tennis coaches, are among eight professions added to the long-term skills list.
Mr Coleman said the changes are aimed at helping Australian football clubs attract elite international talent and develop Australia’s competitiveness on the international stage.
"These changes recognise Australia's passion for sports and the arts," Mr Coleman said.
"Having access to highly skilled professionals helps to develop local talent and facilitate skills and knowledge transfer."
