Working holiday maker changes threaten WA hospitality and tourism workforce
CEO Bradley Woods said the industry was seeking a practical solution rather than simply opposing reform
The Australian Hotels Association (WA) has warned that Commonwealth proposed changes to second and third year Working Holiday Maker visas could have major consequences for tourism and hospitality businesses across Western Australia.
A joint letter to Home Affairs and Immigration Minister Tony Burke, signed by Premier Roger Cook, AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods AM and Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall, urges the Commonwealth to reconsider changes that could cost regional Western Australia 4,500 tourism and hospitality workers during peak season. It calls for the Federal Government to work with WA to minimise the impact on regional businesses.
Mr Woods said the industry was seeking a practical solution rather than simply opposing reform.
Read the latest edition of AccomNews HERE
“Western Australia is particularly exposed because of Perth’s isolation and our dispersed regional tourism destinations which rely heavily on seasonal labour,” he said.
“Working holiday makers fill seasonal and location-specific roles that often cannot be filled locally. Importantly, many regional employers also provide dedicated worker accommodation that does not compete with the traditional residential housing market.
“If hospitality employers cannot retain and recruit the workers they need, the consequences will be very real — reduced operating hours and service capacity, and potentially temporary business closures during peak tourism periods.
More AccomNews: Visa changes will worsen jobs and skills shortages
“That ultimately affects regional communities and the visitor experience, not just individual tourism and hospitality businesses.
“We believe there is a workable way forward. At a minimum, Western Australia must receive sufficient second and third year visa places to meet demonstrated regional workforce demand. Those prepared to commit to even further regional service should also be exempt from the ballot.
“These are practical measures that would protect regional businesses and communities while allowing the Commonwealth to pursue its broader migration objectives.”
