WAFarmers calls on the government to commit to re-establishing the competiveness and profitability of Australian agriculture by addressing a number of key issues in the lead-up to the Federal Election.
Split into five main areas, the WAFarmers election campaign will focus on safeguarding the agricultural supply chain, research and innovation, building a stronger workforce, making agriculture a national priority, and trade.
“Agriculture is the only pillar of the Australian economy which has the potential to double by 2030, so it is critical that the Federal Government not only considers but actions our priority policies, and those of other state farming organisations and the National Farmers Federation,” WAFarmers President Tony York said.
“Our Policy Priorities, which are supported by the NFF’s policy pillars outlined in their Accelerate Agriculture campaign, highlight key areas of strategic importance for the industry.
“There are so many opportunities in agriculture, big and small, which people within the sector can see – now we need the incoming government to get on board, capitalise on these opportunities and safeguard the future of this ever-evolving sector.”
Mr York said WAFarmers would release further details surrounding each Policy Priority in the coming weeks.
“Each policy priority will be detailed thoroughly to ensure government is completely across the most pressing concerns for the agricultural sector, and we also look forward to discussing these priorities in person with representatives from the major political parties.
“We will also present an election scorecard, which will outline the position of the major political parties with regards to our Policy Priorities and assist the public to make their decision at the polls in July.”
The WAFarmers five key Policy Priorities are:
- Safeguarding the agricultural supply chain
Enacting policy to ensure competitiveness, sustainability and profitability. - Investing in innovation, science, research and development
Maintaining the Australian agricultural sector’s position as an international leader by improving productivity and guaranteeing agricultural supply. - Building a stronger workforce
Developing a better understanding of the opportunities in the sector to build a strong workforce and attract the best and brightest. - Prioritising agriculture at the top
Marking agriculture a national economic and policy priority to capture the value of opportunities driven by growing demand for our premium food and fibre. - Further developing the expansion of Australian trade
Capitalising on current and future opportunities to expand the reach and breadth of Australian trade markets.
ENDS.
All media requests must be directed to WAFarmers Media and Communications Officer Melanie Dunn on (08) 9486 2100 or [email protected].
