Discussions over backpacker tax gather momentum

Discussions over backpacker tax gather momentum

The Federal Government’s industry consultation on the proposed backpacker tax got well underway as the chief executives of some of Australia’s leading tourism organisations met with Tourism Minister Richard Colbeck yesterday.

Also in attendance at the meetings were the Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Keith Pitt, and the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Anne Ruston.

Colbeck announced the review last week at Tourism Australia’s Destination Australia Conference in Sydney.

“We must remain globally competitive as a desirable destination that welcomes Working Holiday Makers,” he said.

“They fill vital labour gaps, often in rural and regional areas that depend on their contribution and they make a great addition to our multi-cultural society.”

The tourism industry applauded Colbeck on the consultation process which came about after the sector raised concerns over the negative impact of the proposed 32.5% tax on working holiday makers from the first dollar that they earn – expected to be a reduction in the number of international visitors applying for these working visas.

“Working holiday makers are a crucial source of labour for the industry especially in regional Australia,” a joint statement from tourism stakeholders, including the Tourism and Transport Forum and Tourism Accommodation Australia, said.

“The strong growth in the visitor economy that has been confirmed in the latest visitor survey figures is placing additional pressure on an industry that is already facing a significant labour shortage projected to increase to 123,000 people by 2020.”

The organisations also underlined the contribution of working holiday makers in the area of cultural exchange, and also highlighted their earnings of around $15k per annum which are mainly spent during their time in Australia.

 

Latest News

  • Cruise

European Waterways expands its fleet with the Shannon Princess

European Waterways has expanded its fleet with the acquisition of Shannon Princess, marking an exciting expansion of the company’s renowned fleet of intimate cruising experiences. Cruising Southern Ireland’s River Shannon since 2003, the Shannon Princess has been owned and operated by husband-and-wife duo Ruairi and Olivia Gibbons and has long been cherished part of European Waterways’ offerings. Now fully […]

  • News
  • Tour Operators

CATO Touring Academy doubles achievements

The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Touring Academy has surpassed all expectations, with over 1,000 enrolments, 11,000 course completions, and more than 600 agents earning their CATO Touring Certification since its mid-2024 launch. As the travel industry gears up for another dynamic year, the CATO Touring Academy is empowering travel professionals to elevate their […]

  • Destinations
  • Tour Operators

Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours advises final call for Anzac Day 2025

Mat McLachlan Battlefield Tours has advised that the final call for Anzac Day 2025 is on 31 January 2025 with pre-registration also available for Anzac Day 2026. Travellers are encouraged to book their spot for either the 10-day Anzac Day on the Western Front departing on 19 April from Paris or the 8-day Anzac Day […]

  • Destinations
  • Hotels

Two destinations to visit in Mexico for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and here are two romantic getaway destinations in Mexico to make any traveller’s day with their special someone even better. Casona Roma Norte, Mexico City This Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to visit Mexico City, as the streets come alive with roses, heartfelt gifts, and the city basks in […]