It adds that the citrus industry has been strongly opposed to the 32.5% rate which would have had a negative impact on the availability of backpackers to pick fruit.

Citrus Australia CEO, Judith Damiani, says the proposed 15% rate is both reasonable and equitable to the rate paid to overseas seasonal workers while ensuring Australia remains an attractive destination for backpacker labour. “The work done by the Federal MPs for Barker, Tony Pasin and Mallee, Andrew Broad on this issue has been much appreciated.”

“This issue has gone on for far too long and the industry needs it resolved during this last week of Parliament.  Our growers are tired of these political games and just want to get on with their harvest.”