March 5, 2024

 

Australia's JBS Dinmore ramps up hiring amid surge in meat production

Australia's JBS Dinmore, located west of Brisbane, has significantly increased its workforce, hiring over 300 new employees ahead of an anticipated surge in meat production, ABC Rural reported.

 

The expansion positions the company to process approximately one in 10 of Australia's cattle destined for slaughter.

 

The move comes as research by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) forecasts slaughter rates to reach their highest levels since 2019, indicating an increase in the availability of Australian beef both domestically and internationally. However, the impact on prices remains uncertain.

 

In 2020, JBS Dinmore faced challenges, including the pandemic, drought, and supply shortages, leading to the shedding of 600 jobs and shifts. However, after investing AUD 77 million (US$50.1 million) in plant upgrades last year and conducting a recruitment drive, the facility now employs 1,800 workers across two shifts.

 

Chris Taylor, CEO of the Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC), noted the remarkable turnaround in an industry facing worker shortages, emphasising the significance of ensuring facilities are fully staffed and operational, particularly in regional areas.

 

JBS, headquartered in Brazil, is the world's largest meat company, with substantial operations in Australia. Its Dinmore facility produces grass and grain-fed beef for domestic supermarkets and export markets in Asia, North America, and the Middle East.

 

The new recruits at JBS represent a diverse workforce, with 80% being Queensland residents, bringing a range of skills and capabilities to the company. Murray Wilson, plant manager, highlighted the onboarding of workers from various backgrounds, including electricians, maintenance supervisors, butchers, and slicers.

 

The company's recruitment efforts include flexible work initiatives and partnerships with local high schools to offer school-based traineeships, providing employment pathways for school leavers.

 

According to AMPC, the red meat processing industry employs around 138,000 Australians and contributes approximately AUD 21 billion (US$13.6 billion) to the national economy. The industry is gearing up to accommodate an expected increase in livestock numbers, with JBS planning to enhance its daily processing capacity at Dinmore.

 

While increased supply doesn't guarantee lower prices for consumers, it does mean greater beef availability. The industry, recognising the importance of a diverse workforce, has implemented measures to protect migrant workers, including a voluntary code of conduct developed by AMPC.

 

JBS Australia CEO Brent Eastwood reiterated the company's commitment to providing meaningful employment opportunities, with plans to hire more Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) and international workers in the coming year.

 

-      ABC Rural