Hinchinbrook MP, Andrew Cripps, has welcomed the decision by the Federal LNP Government to slash the rate of the proposed backpacker tax as a win for common-sense.

Mr Cripps said the agriculture and tourism sectors in the Hinchinbrook electorate and across North Queensland would benefit from the re-think of the Federal LNP Government’s policy.

“I have spoken out strongly against the proposed backpacker tax right from the start, including during a debate in the Queensland Parliament in May 2016*” said Mr Cripps.

“The Federal LNP Government has listened to community and industry concerns over the proposed backpacker tax, as it promised to during the recent federal election” he said.

“I would like to acknowledge Queensland LNP Senator Barry O’Sullivan, who has been a very strong advocate for the interests of North Queensland on this important issue”.

“The new reduced marginal tax rate announced by the Federal LNP Government is due recognition of the vital role backpackers play in many areas of Queensland’s regional economy”.

“Backpackers will be able to continue making strong contributions to the economies of local communities as working holiday makers, particularly in North Queensland”.

“Here in the Hinchinbrook electorate, the agriculture and tourism industries in particular utilise working holiday makers extensively, so this is a positive outcome for our region”.

Mr Cripps said the Queensland LNP provided strong support to industry groups representing the agriculture and tourism sectors, as they lobbied against the previous backpacker tax proposal.

*http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/documents/Speeches/spk2016/Andrew_Cripps-Hinchinbrook-20160512-696497913575.pdf#search=(AUTHOR CONTAINS (Andrew Cripps)) OR FILENAME(Andrew Cripps spk* )