The agriculture sector will be engaged for input on proposed revisions to risk regulations regarding the tasks young people can safely perform on family farms.
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden said that consultation will occur regarding these tasks, such as collecting eggs or feeding small animals, with a priority on maintaining safety.
Van Velden stated that, with appropriate supervision and training, children will be allowed to perform more complex tasks as they grow older, but she anticipates that higher-risk activities, such as working near heavy machinery, will continue to be prohibited.
“Farmers know their farms and the risks that come with farming life better than anyone,” she said.
“They’ve told me the law needs to recognise that the farm is often both their workplace and their home.”
“That includes making space for children to safely learn and contribute to farm life in ways that are safe and age-appropriate.”
She said the changes should reassure farming families that children can continue to participate in the family business.
Consultation will also cover approved codes of practice regarding roles and responsibilities in agriculture, as well as the safe use of farm vehicles and machinery.
The cabinet will finalise the decisions in November this year and implement them in the middle of the next year.
Labour raises concerns
The Labour Party is mocking the government’s consultation on the chores children can perform on family farms, calling it a solution looking for a problem.
“Kids are part of the farm life. I’ve taught in a rural area, and it’s really important that we encourage the kids to be active in the farm life,” Labour’s Workplace Relations and Safety spokesperson Jan Tinetti said.
“Parents will… make certain that their kids are safe; it’s not something we should be looking into.”
Labour’s Kieran McAnulty also challenged the reasoning behind it, saying he “wouldn’t have thought” it was a problem.
“It’s pretty common knowledge if an egg is covered in poo, you don’t lick it. Wash your hands afterwards; what’s the problem?” he said.
“This sounds like a similar situation to these kindy kids getting hit in the head by an apple. I don’t think either of those scenarios have ever been raised with anyone.”