The state MP for the Douglas Shire region has joined a growing number of industry leaders and politicians to take aim at the Federal Government for planning to introduce working-visa changes that are expected to have a major impact on employment in the area.

Cook MP David Kempton said this week the Federal Government could not be more out of touch with the regions.

“This is just another example of Albanese belting the bush,” Mr Kempton said.

“Far North Queensland will feel the full brunt of the changes to the tourist visa program.

“Not just in the horticulture industry but hospitality, tourism, cattle properties, shops, businesses and even au pairs will all take a hit,” he said.

Last week a group of Cairns-based leaders joined with Tourism Tropical North Queensland to release a joint statement about planned sweeping changes to the working-visa program.

These include the number of second-year visas being reduced from 57,000 to 45,000 places annually, and backpackers having to complete a required 88 days of specified regional work despite not being guaranteed a second year - they will then enter a ballot for the positions.

Federal Immigration Minister Tony Burke also announced last month, as part of the changes, third-year visas will be cut significantly from 31,000 to just 5000 places.

“Who will pick our food, who will put it on our plates, who will staff our child care centres and aged care homes, and who will provide the language skills needed to keep our visitors safe in the water?,” the leadership group - which included TTNQ chief executive Mark Olsen, Port Douglas Marina owner Crystalbrook chief executive Geoff York and FNQ Growers Association chairman Joe Moro - stated.