February 14, 2014
Gippsland farmers and the agricultural sector are being encouraged to have their say on the future of the industry, by Gippsland MP Darren Chester.
An issues paper on the competitiveness of Australian agriculture has been released for discussion by the Commonwealth Government.
“The issues paper is a part of the Agriculture Competitiveness White Paper, which is an opportunity for local primary producers to have their say on the future direction of the industry,” Mr Chester said.
“The Federal Coalition Government is committed to giving regional Australians a say on the future direction of the agriculture industry.
“Agriculture in all its forms is critical to Gippsland where there are more than 14,000 jobs related to food production; exports exceed $2 billion; and $1.3 billion is spent by those involved in the sector on goods and services within the region.
“The issues paper identifies the key topics that the government would like feedback on, and it will guide the development of the White Paper.
“Issues include access to finance, competitiveness through the value chain, reducing inefficient regulation, enhancing agricultural exports and managing drought for the longer term.”
Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce said it was time for those interested in agriculture to have their say on how Australia can build a sector that grows and delivers a greater return to the nation and the farm gate.
“If your experience in agriculture is anything like mine, then you’re always looking for an opportunity to have your say,” Mr Joyce said.
“Whether you’re drenching sheep, mustering cattle or sitting on a tractor, you always had in the back of your mind what you would do to make the show work better – well this is your opportunity to do precisely that.
“Now is your chance to say what I would do for my nation if I was to make agriculture work better.”
The Agriculture Competitiveness taskforce will visit 25 towns and regional centres and the eight capital cities to consult with industry leaders, farmers, and those in sectors connected to the land like transport and banking in the coming months.
Towns and regional centres the taskforce will visit will be made available soon and those who are interested can also make one-on-one appointments. Written submissions are due by 5pm on April 17, 2014 and can be lodged online at www.agriculturalcompetitiveness.dpmc.gov.au