Australia recruits Halal food processors, offers monthly salary of $2,300

This initiative, announced Monday by the center under the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs, stems from a memorandum of understanding between Vietnam and Australia aimed at supporting Vietnamese workers in Australia's agricultural sector.

The initial recruitment drive is seeking 30 workers for a four-year contract, with roles in slaughtering livestock according to Halal standards and meat processing. The Australian employer specifically requires 15 Muslim workers for the Halal slaughtering positions and will provide the necessary training. The remaining 15 positions are for general meat processing.

The term "Halal" signifies that products or actions are permissible under Islamic law. Muslims adhere to strict dietary regulations, particularly regarding meat, which must be sourced from herbivorous animals slaughtered in accordance with Islamic law and fed a natural diet devoid of animal-based products. Consumption of products derived from pork, lard, or carnivorous animals is prohibited.

Applicants must be at least 21 years old at the time of visa application, in good health, and free from any physical disabilities that could impair mobility. English language proficiency is required, with a minimum IELTS score of 4.0 or equivalent. Acceptable alternative tests include a PTE Academic score of 30 or a CAE score of 147 across all components, taken at registered testing centers. Certificates from home-based or online tests are not valid.

Certificates for English tests are valid for 12 months for scores below IELTS 5.0 or PTE Academic 36, and for 24 months for scores at or above these thresholds.

The Australian meat processing company imposes additional requirements for applicants: they must be aged 21–35, capable of lifting 15–30 kg, and prepared to work in temperatures ranging from 10–35 degrees Celsius. While not mandatory, possessing a vocational certificate is considered an advantage.

Successful candidates will earn a base salary of over AU$26.5 (US$16.55) per hour for a minimum of 38 hours per week, with weekly wage payments. Overtime is a regular requirement.

The employer will contribute at least AU$300 towards airfare and selection costs. However, workers are responsible for other expenses such as English language courses (if required), accommodation, pre-departure travel, transportation to the workplace in Australia, visa fees, passport issuance, health checks, and other fees as mandated by local regulations.