AUSVEG is the national peak industry body representing the interests of 7000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

"The proposed awards changes will have significant impacts for the Australian vegetable industry, ranging from increased costs for producers to a rise in unemployment in regional areas," Mr Mulcahy said.

"The Horticulture Australia Council has estimated that wage costs will increase by as much as 30 per cent, under the new arrangements.

"The industry is already under enormous pressure and this will only result in a loss of jobs."

Vegetable growers will be particularly impacted by the hours of work provisions, piece rates, and casual loadings proposed.

Farmers face rises in piecework loadings from 12.5 per cent to 15 per cent and casual loadings from 15 per cent to 25 per cent.

"The Minister for Workplace Relations instructed the AIRC to set up a process that would neither benefit employers or employees," Mr Mulcahy said.

"In order for this to happen in the horticulture sector, changes to the proposed award process will need to be considered."

Industry leaders are hoping to meet with Ms Gillard to discuss their concerns.

Mr Mulcahy said that there was a need to have an open discussion regarding amendments to the awards that would benefit both employers and employees in the Australian vegetable industry.