Local Industry Impact and Response: Closure of Dicky Bill in Gippsland
The horticulture sector is adjusting to the unexpected closure of Dicky Bill Australia’s Gippsland operations, with the loss of approximately 182 jobs across its national sites. The closure of the Maffra farm has had a profound impact on local workers, including seasonal, backpacker and PALM scheme employees.
This development comes at a challenging time for the regional workforce, supply chains and community services, intensifying the need for coordinated industry support.
Regional Collaboration to Support Displaced Workers
In response, Food & Fibre Gippsland is working closely with Workforce Australia to deliver rapid support initiatives for affected workers and local employers. This collaboration is playing a crucial role in:
Mapping immediate employment needs across horticulture and related sectors
Connecting displaced Dicky Bill employees with new job opportunities
Providing information, referral pathways and workforce support services
Coordinating employers, labour agencies and service providers to ensure workers are not left behind
This joint effort demonstrates the strength of Gippsland’s regional networks and the willingness of industry and employment services to step in quickly and constructively.
Gippsland Workforce & Industry Support Expo
As part of this collaborative response, Food & Fibre Gippsland and Workforce Australia are helping initiate a Gippsland Workforce & Industry Support Expo. This event aims to assist affected workers, and strengthen sector-wide resilience, by bringing together:
Local growers seeking staff
Labour hire and employment service providers
Regional training and support organisations
Supply chain businesses and industry bodies
Workers seeking new employment, upskilling or redeployment
The Expo will provide a central point for connection, pathways and support—helping both workers and businesses stabilise following the Dicky Bill closure.
Further details on timing, venue and registration will be announced as planning progresses.
Strength in Coordination
While the dual pressures of TPP biosecurity changes and the Dicky Bill closure have posed challenges for the region, Gippsland’s response has demonstrated strong industry leadership and shared commitment. With new accreditation arrangements in place and collaborative community efforts underway, the region is focused on ensuring continuity of trade, supporting its workforce and maintaining the resilience of its horticulture sector.
If you have any questions about this article or are impacted by the closure of Dicky Bill in Gippsland, please reach out to our VegNET Gippsland Regional Development Officer, Amanda Gould at amanda.gould@foodandfibregippsland.com.au
