A National Lost Crop Register enabling horticulture growers around Australia to anonymously record crops that have gone to waste because of a lack of seasonal labour.
The National Farmers' Federation Horticulture Council says more than 30 growers have already reported crop losses, worth more than $22 million at the farm gate.
Queensland's peak horticulture body Growcom has led the design and development of the register in collaboration with industry colleagues reports www.goodfruitandvegetables.com.au
NFF chief executive officer Tony Mahar said crop losses would be tracked and reported as the slow moving crisis of seasonal worker shortages unfolded.
"The evidence will be used to inform decision-making and improve the ability of industry to collectively advocate for greater government intervention where necessary," Mr Mahar said.
"There is a real risk the true extent and impact of the labour shortage will be lost. We intend on publishing a running tab as crop losses mount towards Christmas and beyond.
"Reports of lost crops have already made the media, and we are hearing of plenty more examples confidentially."
Reports of lost crops have already made the media, and we are hearing of plenty more examples confidentially, said Tony Mahar, National Farmers Federation
Mr Mahar said unlike a drought, poor prices or a new disease, the lack of labour available to harvest our crops won't discriminate.
Click here to access the National Lost Crop Register.
