Now is the time for Western New South Wales to have a say on how Australia can build an agricultural sector that grows and delivers a greater return to our nation and the farm gate.
Today Federal Member for Parkes, Mark Coulton, welcomed the first steps Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce, has taken in developing the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper by releasing the issues paper and calling on people to get involved.
Minister Joyce said his hands on experience both as a farmer and in agricultural finance and banking meant he was always looking for ways to improve the industry and he wanted other ideas.
“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,” Minister Joyce said.
The issues paper identifies the key matters the government would like input on and 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.
Mr Coulton welcomed the chance for those interested in the future of our primary industries to contribute their ideas.
“I have been listening to the concerns of people involved in all aspects of the Agricultural sector right across the Parkes Electorate and I am taken back by the passion people have for the future survival and prosperity of rural Australia.
With the release of the issues paper, we now have a means with which to communicate that passion and channel ideas into the white paper process” said Mr Coulton.
Written submissions are also sought and these can be lodged via the website.
Mr Coulton said “By participating in this process people have an exciting opportunity to have their say and share their vision for the future of Agriculture in Australia.”
Building on our strengths in agriculture is part of the Australian Government’s plan to build a diverse 5-Pillar economy to generate jobs and deliver a stronger, more prosperous economy.
Submissions are due by 5pm EST 17 April 2014.
The towns and regional centres the taskforce will visit are available on the website. To find out more visit www.agriculturalcompetitiveness.dpmc.gov.au