ADIC welcomes the backpacker tax resolution

The Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC) welcomes the resolution of the backpacker tax.

ADIC Chair David Basham said after 18 months of lobbying the agricultural sector finally has a decision that ensures certainty for backpackers and employers.

“It is a good outcome for dairy farmers and small business owners to know that they will continue to be able to rely on backpackers for vital on-farm and off-farm roles which cannot be filled locally and to complement our existing workforce during peak times,” Mr Basham said.

“The impact of months of indecision has been felt across the dairy sector and, for every day this issue remained unresolved, it affected the dairy industry and rural Australia.”

The passage of the bill through the Senate ensures dairy farmers and processors can operate productive and profitable businesses.

“Along with other agricultural sectors, we have consistently said that we believe it is reasonable for backpackers to pay some tax, but the government’s initial proposal was too high,” Mr Basham said.

The decision to reduce the proposed tax rate from 32.5 per cent to 15 per cent tax maintains Australia’s status as a competitive destination for working holiday makers, while ensuring they pay a fair level of tax.

Media Contact:

Bernadette Marr, Media and Communications Manager

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au