Country town reliant on backpackers warns visa changes will cripple business

Manjimup, a country town in southern Western Australia, is facing severe consequences due to proposed changes in visa regulations. The federal government plans to limit working holiday visas, including second and third-year extensions. Many businesses, including Paul Fowler's pub, and backpackers warn that these changes will cripple their operations.

Over 70% of Fowler's workforce, which consists of backpackers, has expressed concerns about the impact on their livelihoods. Italian travellers like Roberto Spadotto, who has lived in Manjimup for four years, have backed the calls to scrap the changes, stating that they want to settle in the region and build a life there. Fellow traveler Valerie Casto also fears that the new regulations will discourage others from coming to Australia, causing some of her friends to leave the country.

Truffle farmer Gavin Booth, who relies on backpackers for seasonal work, highlights the difficulties in attracting new workers due to the changes. The federal government defends the decision, claiming it aims to ensure the program's long-term sustainability, but regional communities argue that the move will significantly hurt their operations.