Government eases brits backpacker visa cuts after industry pushback
The government is raising backpacker visa caps weeks after announcing strict cuts.
In September, the government announced plans to cut working holiday visa numbers. The third-year visa cap would fall from 31,000 to just 5,000.
Now, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke is reconsidering. Industry groups warned the cuts would hurt hospitality and tourism during summer.
Sources say the government is now looking at raising the third-year cap. The ballot system may be delayed until early 2027.
Burke said the goal is to cut net overseas migration while keeping workers available for industries that need them.
- 31000 to 5000 announced in September
- Third-year cap cut
- 225000 by 2028 down from 300000
- New net migration target
- By 20000
- Expected cap increase
- Tony Burke
- Minister
Why it mattersHospitality and tourism rely on seasonal backpacker workers. Deep cuts could create labour shortages and higher prices during peak travel times.
AustraliaAustralian hospitality, tourism and farming sectors are watching closely as the government finalises its backpacker policy; business certainty depends on whether caps are raised and timelines extended.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 d ago
