Peta Zietsch, Chair of the Backpacker & Youth Tourism Advisory Panel (BYTAP), said any move to scale back WHM visa numbers would be a devastating blow to a sector still recovering from the pandemic. “Our industry has endured incredibly tough years, so the strong return of Working Holiday Makers has been warmly welcomed by tourism operators across the country,” Ms Zietsch said. “A reduction in visa numbers would not only hurt tourism operators, but it would also impact many of the regional economies that they help support.”

Ms Zietsch emphasised the crucial role backpackers play in supporting regional economies, particularly in agriculture and hospitality. “During the pandemic, we saw the consequences of losing this vital workforce-unharvested crops, soaring produce prices, and the closure of many regional tourism businesses,” she said. “Working Holiday Makers don’t just fill labour shortages-they spend money locally and contribute meaningfully to the communities in which they live and work.”

Ms Zietsch points out that the WHM visa program is reciprocal, meaning changes to the scheme would affect both inbound and outbound young travellers. “Fewer visas for inbound backpackers would also limit opportunities for young Australians wanting to work and travel abroad. Let’s not forget that in the last two years, the number of young Australians taking advantage of these opportunities has soared.”

Australia’s Working Holiday Maker scheme is one of the most successful of its kind globally. “These travellers stay longer, spend more, and become lifelong advocates for Australia, often encouraging friends and family to visit.”

“We must not underestimate the immense value of this program-not only as a pipeline for workers, but as a cornerstone of youth and regional tourism.”

Media Contact:
Peta Zietsch
BYTAP Chairperson
0418772445 / petazietsch@gmail.com