A TAX hike on foreign workers could have an impact on Tasmania's peak berry picking season.
Some working holidaymakers may choose to go berry picking around New Zealand. according to Christmas Hills Tasmanian Berries manager Andrew Terry. With the federal government's proposed tax hike expected to take effect on July 1, will not be seen until next season. But Mr Terry said he had already heard some of his regular workers say they were thinking of "skipping across the ditch. – it's a fair chunk of their money that will be taxed."
At present, working holiday visa holders are eligible for the same tax-free threshold as Australian workers, and they can earn up to $18,200 without paying tax. Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA) vegetable council chairman Nathan Richardson said it could lead to possibilities for local workers. "The positive side there could be good job opportunities for people throughout Tasmania," he said."
