General News
26 October, 2026
Backpacker visa talks
FEDERAL MP Matt Smith has returned to the Far North without any answers after his delegation met senior ministers to discuss the impact of backpacker numbers and working holiday visas on the region.
He was joined in parliament house by local industry representatives from Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Cairns Chamber of Commerce, The Reef Hotel Casino Cairns, Ochre Restaurant and the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators.
“We have had a series of positive and constructive meetings with the Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke and Queensland Senator Murray Watt as we work together to forge the best path forward for our communities on these matters,’ Mr Smith said.
“The cohort is representative of a huge number of businesses and individuals who are critical to the economy of the Far North. My sincerest thanks to everyone who has reached out to me and engaged in this process.”
He said there had been “honest and open discussion” but could not reveal what solutions were forthcoming.
