The town’s unemployment levels have ballooned out in recent months, exacerbated by the Manildra meatworks closure in February where 220 people were left looking for work.

However, local employment officers have also warned of the broader ramifications of the government’s abolishment of 457 visas.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull announced the changes mid last month.

A number of sectors such as health and science have warned against the downfalls in regional areas of revoking visas to foreign workers

And areas such as agribusiness and horse breeding, that are typically reliant on international or seasonal workers, could also be impacted.

Local employment and disability officer Michelle S (last named removed for policy reasons) said the absence of 457 workers could open desperately needed opportunities for locals to re-engage with the working community.

“There is a huge problem with unemployment in Cootamundra at the moment,” Mrs S said.

“There aren’t enough places for young adults to work and gain experience (but) the abolishment of 457 visas could potentially spark a boost for local employment.”

However, Mrs S expressed concern over the potential impact on the horse industry particularly, stating a number of breeders employ “live-in” 457 workers on a minimum wage to assist with seasonal chores.

“Plenty of employers in the industry are using international workers on this visa,” she said. 

“They generally engage travellers between the age of 17 and 21 who are keen to break into the horse industry and have them working in the stables as a stud hand or in a similar capacity.

“I’m sure these industries would suffer without those workers coming through.”

Delta Livestock and Property spokesman Andrew Adams was unsure of the scrapped visa’s impact on agribusiness, stating instances of 457 visa workers were uncommon in the region and were generally suited to industries such as fruit picking.

“I don’t know of any in the immediate area,” Mr Adams said. “There might be the odd backpacker going around but I’m not aware of substantial instances of 457 visa workers.”