August 29, 2016
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) is encouraging farmers to have their say on the Federal Government’s “Backpacker Tax” Review.
Submissions are due by Friday (September 2).
The QFF said farmers should consider 10 facts before completing the survey:
1. Working holiday-makers undertake work that Australians are unable or unwilling to perform.
2. Backpackers should pay at least some tax while in Australia.
3. Working holiday-makers should be able to access their superannuation when they depart Australia.
4. The number of working holiday-makers coming to Australia will decline if a 32.5 per cent income tax rate is enforced.
5. Working holiday-makers contribute to regional Australia.
6. Is it important that working holiday-makers spend time outside major cities?
7. Australian workers should be given the opportunity to work, before the role is offered to a working holiday-maker.
8. The labour hire industry is sufficiently regulated with respect to working holiday-makers.
9. The amount of red tape involved in employing workers is about right.
10. Farmers are aware of government programs to help people in seasonal and temporary jobs.
QFF president Stuart Armitage joined the call by Growcom and Cotton Australia for the removal of the proposed tax.
“QFF and its member industries continue our campaign in opposition to a tax rate of 32.5 per cent from the first dollar as it is uncompetitive and will drive backpackers overseas to work,” Mr Armitage said.
“We put forward that backpackers should pay tax at a rate that allows them to earn a wage that is internationally competitive.
“Backpackers are an essential component of Queensland agriculture’s labour force. Any policy determination that reduces access to backpacker labour has serious consequences for our industries.”
“Backpackers contribute more than $3.5 billion to the economy each year as some 40,000 workers come to regional areas to work on farms.
“QFF welcome and thank the Queensland Government and the Liberal National Party convention’s positions against the proposed backpacker tax with Queensland in line to be hardest hit with more than half of all backpackers coming to Australia work and holiday here.
“It is essential that the results of the Federal Government survey confirm what our industry members already know; that a 32.5 per cent tax rate would result in labour shortages and undermine our industries’ ability to function.
“QFF and members have already engaged in the Federal Government’ survey consultation process, however it is essential that farmers also have their say to ensure we get a complete representation from the entire sector.”
- External link: Department of Agriculture and Water Resources survey
