Backpackers reveal stories of sexual assault, exploitation while working on Australian farms

AUSTRALIAN STORY BY JENNIFER FELLER

VIDEO 0:55 A Canadian backpacker says a farmer attempted to sexually assault her while working in Mildura.
ABC NEWS

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The mother of a young woman murdered at a Queensland hostel has been inundated with "horror stories" from backpackers trying to complete their 88 days of farm work.
Key points:

• Mother of murdered backpacker gathering complaints from travellers working on Australian farms
• Backpacker working in north Queensland says he was lured to hostel with promise of work that took weeks to eventuate
• Backpacker in Bowen says hostel owner found 'sly ways' to touch female workers
• Another in Bundaberg lost his thumb in an accident on first day at job

Rosie Ayliffe is campaigning for reform of what she says is a flawed visa scheme that puts young lives at risk.


Her daughter Mia Ayliffe-Chung, 20, was murdered last August while undertaking the rural work required to get a one-year extension to her 417 visa.


Ms Ayliffe has spent the past few months gathering stories from backpackers who have travelled to Australia and experienced the "dark side" of an industry that is crucial to the agricultural sector.


Although many backpackers have enjoyable, positive experiences on the 88-day farm work scheme, many others complain of financial, sexual and psychological abuse.


Ms Ayliffe, an English teacher from Derbyshire in the UK, has heard claims of rent rip-offs, sexual assault and false promises of work.


Four of the backpackers who have been in touch with her shared their stories with Australian Story.

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mobile.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-17/rosie-ayliffe-uncovers-backpacker-farm-work-horror-stories/8687868?pfmredir=sm