The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has welcomed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s commitment to addressing the regional impacts of Australia’s Working Holiday Maker (WHM) arrangements with the UK, following discussions at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
ATEC Managing Director Peter Shelley said the Prime Minister’s recognition of the concerns raised by regional tourism and hospitality businesses was an encouraging step towards finding practical solutions to the unintended consequences of the Australia–UK Free Trade Agreement.
“The Working Holiday Maker program is one of Australia’s great tourism success stories, bringing young international visitors who travel, spend and work across our country while building lifelong connections with Australia,” Mr Shelley said.
“We are pleased the Prime Minister has recognised the concerns of regional employers and the opportunity to encourage more UK backpackers to experience regional Australia.
“While no changes have been announced, the willingness to engage with the UK on this issue is a positive development and provides an opportunity to explore solutions that benefit both countries.”
The removal of regional work requirements for UK backpackers has contributed to significant growth in second- and third-year stays, adding pressure to Net Overseas Migration (NOM) while reducing incentives for these visitors to travel and work in regional Australia.
ATEC is encouraging a targeted approach to reform that rewards regional travel and employment, promotes greater geographic mobility and helps manage extended stays, while preserving the benefits of the bilateral agreement and the long-term sustainability of the WHM program.
“Regional Australia has much to gain from encouraging UK backpackers to explore beyond our capital cities, supporting local businesses, contributing to seasonal workforce needs and bringing valuable visitor expenditure into regional communities,” Mr Shelley said.
“The Prime Minister’s focus on finding a win-win outcome is the right approach. Rather than simply restricting visa numbers, we have an opportunity to develop smarter arrangements that encourage regional dispersal, deliver stronger economic outcomes and help manage migration pressures.
“We look forward to building on these discussions and working with Government on practical solutions that maximise the economic and regional benefits of the WHM program while ensuring it remains sustainable for the future.”
