By Fatma Younis
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has signalled plans to renegotiate a visa agreement with the United Kingdom after a sharp rise in British backpackers placed strain on local labour markets in popular coastal areas.
Visa rules eased under free trade deal
The current arrangement stems from a free trade agreement signed under former UK prime minister Boris Johnson. It removed a requirement for British travellers to complete roughly three months of regional work, extended the maximum visa duration to three years, and raised the age limit to 35. The changes also apply to Australians visiting the UK, though fewer than 10,000 did so last year.
Visitor numbers more than double
Australian government figures show British working holiday arrivals have more than doubled, rising from 40,000 two years ago to 87,000 last year. The majority are concentrated in Sydney and beachside suburbs such as Bondi and Coogee, where they predominantly work in hospitality.
Pressure on local workforce
Albanese told parliament the influx is distorting the labour market in those areas. "They are staying at Bondi Beach or Coogee or around particularly the capital cities and working in hospitality there. That's placing enormous pressure because it's distorting the labour market in these areas as well," he said.
Discussions at Commonwealth summit
Albanese raised the issue with UK Cabinet Office Minister Andy Burnham during a bilateral meeting at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Antigua. Burnham confirmed the meeting but declined to comment on potential changes. A Downing Street spokesperson said leaders discussed the visa arrangement but made no commitments, emphasising the importance of strong UK-Australia partnerships and opportunities for young people.
