Industry groups have reacted to the federal election, which has confirmed the Labor government’s return
Labor’s return to federal government means farmers can anticipate the rollout of the party’s budget promises.
These included $3.5 million over two years to develop a National Food Security Strategy, along with nearly $24 million over three years to sponsor agricultural trade events.
Money was also promised for a Buy Australian campaign, along with continuing efforts to reduce the burden of feral animals, weeds and pests.
The food strategy was highlighted by National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke as a key action area for the returning government.
“They’ve backed things like moving on a right to repair, and investing in farm safety, connectivity, and our trade relationships,” Jochinke says.
“The job for us now is to partner on getting those things done.
“Importantly, they’ve embraced the idea of a National Food Security Strategy. We’re hoping we can use this to drive some really positive collaboration between industry and government.
“That piece of work has been a long time coming and with the uncertain state of the world it’s never been more critical.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is yet to announce his cabinet, including who will have the job of agriculture minister.
Tasmania’s Julie Collins took on the role in July last year, replacing Murray Watt.
Grain Producers Australia CEO Colin Bettles wrote to Collins with the GPA’s election priorities, and in her reply Collins says the government is “committed to a robust, sustainable agriculture industry, including the grains sector, that continues to prosper and grow in Australia”.
The reply also addressed the government’s planned food strategy, Feeding Australia.
“The strategy will boost the security and supply chain resilience of agriculture and food production systems in Australia and will be developed through a collaborative approach with industry stakeholders,” Collins wrote.
“In addition, we will establish a National Food Council consisting of stakeholders across the food system to advise on the development and implementation of the strategy.
“Feeding Australia will also include the development of a National Feedstock Strategy to optimise Australia’s feedstock production for low carbon liquid fuels.
“This will help secure Australia’s long-term sustainable fuel security.”
Jochinke also acknowledged the Coalition, who he says supported many of the NFF’s election priorities.
He believes it is important for the sector to work with all parliamentarians to ensure agriculture’s interests are best represented.
“Agricultural advocacy isn’t just about working with the major parties,” he says.
“We’ve appreciated independents and minor parties who’ve opened their door to the NFF in recent years.
“We want to build on those relationships and embrace new ones because delivering for farmers depends on having champions right across the Parliament.”