Local workers are taking up farm jobs as Queensland farmers are forced to pay higher wages

Critical labour shortages are forcing Queensland farmers to pay higher wages and provide better conditions to attract local workers.

The improved conditions come amid warnings of higher prices for consumers as food is left unpicked.

Bundaberg lychee grower Craig van Rooyen said the coronavirus pandemic had forced him to rely on almost 100 locals to get fruit picked and packed.

“It’s mostly a local workforce for the first time,” he said.