The proposal is to convert and extend three residential houses in central Shepparton into accommodation that will cater for up to 72 seasonal workers.
The location in the plans is 112, 114 and 116 Vaughan St, Shepparton, just off St George’s Rd.
The proposal is to provide accommodation for seasonal workers who travel to Shepparton for the harvest season under the PALM scheme (Pacific Australia Labour Mobility).
Three cabins will be located behind the existing houses, with communal kitchen, shower block and toilet facilities.
Residents can stay in the complex for up to six months.
The planning application before Greater Shepparton City Council is on public notice until September 11.
The PALM scheme allows eligible Australian businesses to hire workers from Pacific island countries and Timor-Leste when there are not enough local workers available.
The PALM scheme was designed to fill labour gaps in rural and regional Australia and nationally for agriculture and select agriculture-related food product manufacturing sectors by offering employers access to a pool of reliable, productive workers.
It also allows Pacific and Timor-Leste workers to take up jobs in Australia, develop their skills and send income home.
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