Migration settings must support the Territory’s growth

The Northern Territory needs migration settings that recognise how our economy works.

DMBG recently welcomed increased skilled migration places for the Territory. Working Holiday Makers also make an important contribution, helping businesses meet seasonal workforce needs while travelling and spending in our communities.

Tourism, hospitality and agriculture benefit from their contribution. For the Territory, access to these workers helps businesses respond to demand and deliver the experiences and services that visitors expect.

With visa application pauses and processing delays already affecting the program, DMBG is concerned about the consequences of any further restrictions on access or length of stay.

Eligible work in the NT also provides a pathway for many Working Holiday Makers to qualify for another visa. Removing that opportunity could weaken an important incentive to take up jobs in the Territory.

DMBG supports calls to maintain access to Working Holiday Maker visas and current stay arrangements, improve processing certainty, and assess the consequences for regional and remote employers before introducing further restrictions.

Alongside continued investment in training and employing Territorians, we need workforce policies that support the Territory’s growth.