Tourism is not a discretionary or “nice to have” industry.
Because there’s more at stake than visas.
Australia could lose an estimated 38,000 regional backpackers under major changes announced to Australia’s Working Holiday Maker visa program.
For tourism, this is not simply a reduction in visa numbers. Working Holiday Makers are temporary visitors who work, travel and spend in our communities before returning home. They help tourism businesses fill genuine regional and seasonal workforce gaps, support permanent Australian employees and keep visitor experiences operating.
We’re asking you to share the ‘More at Stake’ messaging with your stakeholders.
When regions speak together, it’s harder to ignore. This campaign brings the industry into one coordinated voice helping elevate regional tourism as a serious economic contributor in front of decision makers.
By getting involved in the movement, you’re adding weight to the argument for increased investment and consideration for regional tourism. The more organisations involved, the clearer the message that regional communities rely on this sector to thrive.
Participating also looks like shared storytelling on our social media channels, greater visibility and a larger audience engaging with regional tourism.
For most regional towns, tourism is the economy.
Working Holiday Makers help tourism, hospitality and event businesses fill genuine seasonal and regional workforce gaps. They are also visitors who stay longer, travel further and spend in communities across Australia.
The second and third-year pathways have provided a powerful incentive for these travellers to leave the major cities and work regionally. With fewer pathways available, first-year Working Holiday Makers may make different choices about where they travel, work and spend.
Simply put, these workers do not replace the local workforce. They help businesses remain operational.
There’s more at stake than visas. How can you get involved?
Share and reshare our messaging with your viewers
Incorporate ‘There’s more at stake’ messaging into any stories, releases, PR channels and eNews you are doing. Make the most of the provided templates for aligned creative with our official messaging.
Get involved on social media
Update the provided social media templates with your own curated imagery and copy
Create and share your own content in line with campaign messaging
Tag @australiantourism, #RegionalTourism
If sharing or promoting anything to do with the campaign, please use the following call to action:
www.regionaltourism.com.au/moreatstake
If you have any questions about using the CTA, please contact our agency Media Mortar, Hannah Statham – hello@mediamortar.com.au