THE long-awaited confirmation of a new backpacker tax deal has been acknowledged as timely by SA growers, but not without criticism of the 18-month passage to reach the decision.
Sunlands citrus grower Mark Doecke, who relies heavily on working holidaymakers for labour during picking season, said employers could live with the 15 per cent tax rate.
He said backpacker workers would “certainly pay their fair share”, taking into account the 65pc tax they would pay on their superannuation.
Mr Doecke was hopeful the decision would shore up labour supply for fruitgrowers in the Riverland region, but was scathing of the political game-playing which shrouded the process.
“The dilly-dallying and unprofessionalism has damaged Australia’s reputation as a choice destination (for working holidaymakers),” he said.
“But hopefully we can get that back.”
Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said with an agreement on the backpacker tax rate reached, potential working holidaymakers had to be made aware of the newest rate.
“We need to spread the word to those living abroad to go ahead with their trip to the region,” he said.
“They will play an important role in our seasonal workforce and spend much of the money they earn in our local communities.”
Mr Whetstone was pleased to see an agreement finally reached on a 15pc backpacker tax rate.
He said it would provide some certainty for areas that rely on a seasonal workforce, including the Riverland and Mallee.
“The Riverland and Mallee are competing for backpackers with every other country in the southern hemisphere,” he said.
“We need to provide some certainty so these itinerant workers – which many industries in the region rely on – continue to travel to SA.
“In many cases, we are increasingly reliant on transient workers.
“The backpacker tax agreement means these workers will be taxed at an internationally competitive rate of 15pc from the first dollar earned.”
