Statements
Backpacker tax backdown about time but possibly too late
After more than a year of uncertainty for the agriculture and tourism sectors the Turnbull Government appears to have scrapped the ill-conceived backpacker tax.
This Government has a poor track record when it comes to implementing policy and a clear ambition to destroy Tasmania’s competitive advantage.
The Government has made the right call in dumping this tax that could have crippled our tourism and agriculture sectors but has once again displayed to the Tasmanian people that it cannot consult with the sector, business and the community, but rather announces policy on the run.
I hope that this decision has not been made too late as backpackers have been considering for some time as to whether they will travel to Tasmania for the upcoming summer harvest.
SENATOR HELEN POLLEY SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER TO THE LEADER (TASMANIA) SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR AGEING SENATOR FOR TASMANIA