Farmers warn backpacker visa changes could push up food prices as the struggle for workers continues.
A range of changes come into effect for Australian visa programs from July 1, including a 25 percent increase in visa charges for working holiday makers.
The National Farmers Federation said the changes will make Australia up to five times more expensive than countries such as Canada, New Zealand and Germany and will turn away working holiday makers including farm workers.
“Any increased charges, anything that makes them have less money to spend … they will take that into account,” the federation’s Fiona Simson said.
The changes will also bring the first British backpackers not required to undertake specified regional work to extend their stay….