The Australian government is preparing to bring back the work restriction for British backpackers, according to sources familiar with the plans. Under the change, holders of the subclass 417 Working Holiday visa from the UK would need to complete a minimum period of specified work – typically in agriculture, hospitality, or mining in regional areas – in order to qualify for a second-year visa extension.
The requirement was suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic to encourage travel and ease labour shortages, but with international tourism now recovering, officials believe the rule is necessary to channel young workers into regions that struggle to attract staff. The policy mirrors similar arrangements that apply to backpackers from other eligible countries.
The revival is likely to spark debate. Regional employers, particularly in horticulture and fruit picking, have long relied on backpacker labour to fill seasonal gaps. The National Farmers' Federation has previously called for the requirement to be reinstated, arguing that visa incentives are critical to sustaining rural workforces.
However, critics argue the requirement can lead to exploitation, with some backpackers forced into low-wage, poor-condition jobs just to secure visa extensions. The Migrant Workers Centre has documented cases of wage theft and poor accommodation in the past. Some British travellers have also voiced frustration, preferring to travel without a work obligation.
The UK–Australia free trade agreement, which came into force in 2023, removed some visa barriers but did not eliminate the work requirement for extended stays. The new rule is expected to be formally announced in the coming weeks, with implementation likely early in the new visa year.