Dear Senate Enquiry,

This petition completely rejects the revised backpacker tax at 19%. 

This petition supports the current tax legislation where working holiday makers pay tax based on whether they are classed as a resident or non-resident for tax purposes with the relevant tax free threshold.

This means working holiday makers will pay some tax, then proceed to spend their earnings as they work and travel throughout regional Australia, filling vital horticulture and agriculture labour needs along the way.

The primary reason the working holiday program was created, is to encourage cultural exchange and closer ties between arrangement countries.  Since when did this program turn into a government cash grab strategy?

 
The government has now moved to replace one bad tax proposal with three.  An income tax at 19%, superannuation tax at 95%, and an increased departure tax of $5 to all travellers, including Australians!

Australia must focus on growth strategies rather than taxation measures to supplement government revenue, simultaneously injecting economic stimuli into national and regional economies.

Working Holiday Makers numbers have already dropped by 21% in the last 3 years, we fear what will happen if a backpacker tax is introduced. 

Support this petition to make sure the Australian community maintains the current benefits of a strong working holiday tourism industry – as well as a motivated and flexible workforce to help the agricultural industry grow.