Backpackers face immediate orders to go home
sidering more stringent measures for those who ignore Australia’s rules, with the potential for those to have their visas cancelled.
Two announcements will be made today by Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge and Agriculture Minister David Littleproud and all but carve out two new cohorts of visa holders – ones needed to help Australia get through the virus and others who place a strain on resources.
There are more than two million people on temporary visas in the country.
International students, who were recently allowed to double the number of hours they could work to help stack supermarket shelves, will now have these wound back to 40 hours a fortnight from May 1 as desperate Australians look for work.
Mr Tudge said most temporary visa holders with work rights would now be able to access their Australian superannuation to help support themselves during this crisis.
The message will also be made clear today that backpackers will not receive Australian welfare.
“Temporary visa holders who are unable to support themselves under these arrangements over the next six months are strongly encouraged to return home,” Mr Tudge said.
“For these individuals it’s time to go home, and they should make arrangements as quickly as possible.”
“Temporary visa holders are extremely valuable to the Australian economy and way of life, but the reality is that many Australians will find themselves out of work due to the dual health and economic crisis we’re currently facing, and these Australians and permanent residents must be the government’s number one focus.”
Flights are still available out of Australia. Changes would be made to enable temporary visa holders to remain in key industries, such as health, aged and disability care, agriculture and food processing, Mr Littleproud said.
“Workforce requirements for agriculture change within and across states as different crops are ready for harvest,’’ he said
“It is essential for our food security that workers can move to meet these seasonal labour needs,” Mr Littleproud said.
“At the same time it is critical we manage this labour force to support the ongoing health of regional communities.”
He said local governments, farming peak bodies and farmers would work with health authorities.