The next Federal government must secure economic conditions which allow Australian agriculture to be more financially competitive and maximise export income for industry.
The call is the second component of WAFarmers’ five policy priorities for the upcoming Federal election.
While recognising the Australian dollar is traded in a competitive market, WAFarmers President Dale Park said farmers’ profitability had been negatively impacted by inefficient taxation measures, the high costs of complying with over-regulation and most of all, the high Australian dollar.
“While recent circumstances have provided some relief, the future government must shore up economic conditions to allow the export trade to take full advantage of the lower dollar and remain competitive in future conditions, whatever they may be.”
Whoever wins the election should be mindful of the contribution agriculture makes to the nation’s wealth and the sustainability of rural communities, according to Mr Park.
“Policies should reflect this contribution and ensure the future viability of agricultural enterprises and increase food security,” he said.
