The Hodgman Liberal Government’s number one priority is jobs and that’s why we are opposed to the proposed backpacker tax.
This tax would hurt the competitiveness of our tourism and primary industries sectors, sectors that are vital to our economic growth and job creation.
Our agriculture and horticulture sector especially is growing quickly and we need the seasonal labour to help meet the growing demand for Tasmanian products.
By supporting businesses with seasonal labour at harvest time, we can help businesses grow and expand, which creates more job opportunities for Tasmanians during the rest of the year.
I have written to the Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Luke Hartsuyker, outlining the Hodgman Government’s position and I know that many industry leaders will make their thoughts clear later today.
Jeremy Rockliff, Acting Premier
