Labor proposes a fix to the government’s shambles on backpacker tax

LABOR PROPOSES A FIX TO THE GOVERNMENT’S SHAMBLES ON BACKPACKER TAX

Federal Member for Bass Ross Hart today welcomed the announcement by Shadow Ministers that Labor will move amendments in the Senate that will lower the proposed tax rate for working holiday makers from 19 per cent to 10.5 per cent.

A successful push by Labor MP’s for a senate enquiry into the proposed legislation gave agriculture and tourism groups the opportunity that was denied to them by the Turnbull Government to have their say on how the tax will affect them.

Mr Hart said that the position that was supported in caucus today was only possible after the senate enquiry process, which has produced real results for industry.

“The ALP listened to industry concerns that confirmed the higher tax rate as ticked off by the National Farmers Federation was hugely problematic and not supported by local industry and representative groups”, Mr Hart said.

“The clear message from the tourism and agricultural industries was that they wanted a lower tax rate. By setting our tax rate in line with New Zealand we are ensuring that Australia maintains a competitive advantage in attracting future backpackers”, he added.

Mr Hart emphasised how the Turnbull Government misplayed the entire situation around the ill-conceived tax, including a failure to consult with industry or model the impact of higher taxes on the agricultural industry.

“In contrast to this shambolic Liberal government and despite protestations from Senator Duniam that he had ‘fixed’ the Government’s mismanagement, Labor did what Labor does best – listen and address the concerns of industry ensuring certainly and an effective labour market”, Mr Hart said.
ROSS HART MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BASS