Backpacker tax here to stay

The Turnbull Government’s decision to delay the harmful backpacker tax was no more than a political fix, Tourism Minister Kate Jones said today.

Ms Jones said the federal review of the backpacker tax did nothing to calm fears the tax would hurt Queensland tourism and agriculture.

“We know you can’t create jobs and growth in tourism by taxing tourists,” Ms Jones said.

“We will not be fooled – Mr Turnbull wants to kick this can down the road to get it off the agenda during the federal campaign.”

Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Leanne Donaldson said the Turnbull Government had missed their chance to abolish the tax.

“Last week, the Queensland Parliament called on the Turnbull Government to abolish the tax before it does more harm,” Ms Donaldson said.

“The motion I proposed was supported without dissent.

“Treasurer Morrison had a chance to dump the tax in the Federal Budget and chose not to do so.

“Today the Coalition had another opportunity to admit the backpacker tax was bad for our producers, tourism operators and rural economies and they fudged it.

“This huge tax hike for working holiday visa holders, which was to start from 1 July, has already caused severe disruption for farmers who rely on backpackers to harvest their produce.”

Ms Jones said the Federal Government was planning to raise more than half a billion dollars from the backpacker tax. 

“They introduced this tax last year without any consultation and now because they are taking political heat during an election campaign they expect us to believe they will listen to our tourism and agriculture sectors,” she said.

“If Mr Turnbull really cared about growing tourism and agriculture in this country he would immediately scrap the backpacker tax.” 

Media: Minister Jones’ office: 0408 998 940

            Minister Donaldson’s office 0448 994 172