Council calls for rethink on backpacker worker caps
Published on 23 September 2026
Corangamite Shire Council has welcomed the addition of agriculture as a priority in processing skilled worker visa applications and called for backpackers to be added to the list.
Agriculture was not initially included when the Federal Government introduced a new system in which skilled visa applications will be moved to the top of the list if applicants' occupations are in high demand.
It has now been added alongside sectors such as construction, fisheries, resources, teaching, healthcare, law enforcement and defence.
Mayor Kate Makin welcomed the addition of agriculture skills to the fast track and said working holiday makers were also vital to Corangamite employers in peak seasons.
“Agriculture, tourism and related industries are the two main pillars of our Shire economy,” Cr Makin said.
“With local unemployment at only 1.4%, compared to 5.1% statewide and 4.5% nationally, employers face ongoing difficulty in attracting and retaining workers.
“About 100 new jobs at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre, which is set to open next month, mean the labour market in this region is under even more pressure, especially coming into the annual surge in demand for workers over summer.”
The visa shakeup also proposes a cap of 45,000 second-year working holiday visas, down from the 57,000, and 5,000 third-year visas, down from 31,000.
Under existing requirements, backpackers must do three months’ specified regional work to stay for a second year, and six months’ regional work for a third.
“Many agricultural businesses, tourism operators, hospitality venues and accommodation providers rely on backpackers to help meet workforce demands during their busiest times,” Cr Makin said.
“Proposed caps on the Working Holiday Maker program will restrict access to a reliable seasonal workforce that allows businesses to meet demand during peak periods.”
Cr Makin said backpackers do more than fill vacancies.
“They contribute directly to the local economy through spending on accommodation, food, transport and entertainment – all of which supports local businesses and communities,” she said.
“Some also settle down here and start families which ensures the future sustainability of our small towns.
“Given the importance of farming and tourism to the Corangamite economy, Council encourages the Government to carefully consider the implications of any changes to backpackers arrangements.”