Federal Budget lacks sufficient rural sizzle
THE NSW Farmers Association is describing the 2018 Federal Budget as “wholesome” but lacking sizzle for rural, remote and regional Australia.
NSW Farmers president Derek Schoen said investment in biosecurity, GPS and satellite imagery, agricultural freight, and the extension of the $20,000 instant asset write-off were among the positive announcements for the Australian agricultural industry.
“We welcome investment in biosecurity to enhance our clean and green credentials, which will help to grow the value of agriculture,” Mr Schoen said.
“A new $6.6 million allocation for established pest and weeds will certainly not go astray. We’ll be seeking to ensure investment is made in projects that can have direct impact on the ground.
“We’re also pleased to see $260 million commitment to improve GPS and satellite imagery, but disappointed there is no new commitment to further address mobile blackspots.
“Poor telecommunication service is a major problem for a lot of our members. The Government’s failure to commit additional funding to the Mobile Blackspot Program is a big let-down for regional communities,” he said.
“The budget provides funding to better understand agriculture’s labour force needs.
“It also allocates funds to the development of a fresh food precinct at Western Sydney Airport, an issue long championed as a game-changer for food and fibre producers in New South Wales seeking to export their produce to new markets.
“Investments to improve the efficiency and reliability of agricultural freight is central to the viability of the farming sector.”
Other positive funding announcements included funding for the next step in the transformation of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority, and investment in rural health and education.
“This is a wholesome budget, but it’s fair to say we were expecting more agriculture specific announcements. The association will be keeping a close eye on how the initiatives announced will benefit our industry.”