“The number of Working Holiday visas granted has been in decline since the Backpacker Tax was proposed and unfortunately a degree of damage has already been done,” Mr Redman said.
Mr Redman called on the Federal Government to undertake a targeted campaign to promote Australia as a great place to travel and work for working holidaymakers.
“Working holidaymakers are a valuable labour source in a range of industries including agriculture, fishing, horticultural, hospitality and tourism industries, all of which are significant contributors to the Warren-Blackwood region,” Mr Redman said.
“Backpackers also spend as they travel, supporting local businesses and regional communities.”
Mr Redman said The Nationals WA had lobbied against the tax from the outset amid concerns from key stakeholders about its negative impact on employers and workers in a number of industries across regional WA including agriculture and tourism.
“We have fought hard against this tax given the number of industries across regional WA that depend on backpackers to fill casual and seasonal employment vacancies that are often difficult to source locally,” Mr Redman said.