Tax shift gives Tas farmers certainty

Tasmanian farmers had been among the most resolute opponents of the federal government's proposed backpacker tax and have welcomed a softened approach that they say will ensure the supply of necessary workers.

Tuesday's announcement that backpackers will be charged 19 per cent tax from the first dollar they earn, instead of the previously proposed 32.5 cents in the dollar, was applauded by the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association.

"The reality is that Tasmanian agriculture needs backpackers and, following today's announcement, our farmers can be assured that they will have the workforce that they need," Association boss Peter Skillern said.