NATIONAL FARMERS FEDERATION PUSHES FOR RETURN OF BACKPACKERS

The National Farmers Federation is asking the Federal Government to consider the return of international backpackers to Australia.

The organisation estimates backpackers were providing up to 80 percent of the industry’s seasonal workforce prior to the pandemic.

“Ultimately, that’s what we want to get back to – where people can work on a particular farm or a particular region and then, as the season progresses, progress with it, up and down the coast or across the country.. that’s ideally what we want to get back to.”

Federation CEO Tony Mahar has submitted a proposal to see the Working Holiday program restarted, under covid-safe regulations.

(AUDIO IN PARTS)