WHAT the farmer rally in Canberra last month lacked in numbers, was more than made up for in passion as primary producers and affected suppliers descended on Parliament House.
Initiated by Western Australian farmers calling for the ban on live sheep exports to be lifted, it saw producers, supporters and their rigs come from across the states to send multiple messages to the nation’s leaders.
The WA protest movement against the live sheep ban continues to expand, with more state communities affected by the potential loss of the international live sheep trade joining the protest.
They argue countries requiring live sheep for traditional or religious reasons rather than meat products, will move their purchases to other live sheep suppliers, replacing WA’s market, export earnings and regional incomes.
The government has offered one-off taxpayer funded payments which will not cover future losses of income.
This movement has now taken on an ‘east against the west’ stance.
Other concerns voiced include producers having a seat at the table on agricultural policies and practical solutions, as evidenced by the government now abandoned legislation requiring primary producers contribute to border biosecurity.
They also cite critical issues facing the industry including water buybacks in the Murray Darling Basin, recent superannuation changes affecting family farms, and diesel fuel rebate and unnecessary red tape around emissions.
Recent industrial relations changes have also frustrated farmers, who along with small to medium regional businesses, don’t have capacity to pass on the extra costs, or resources to respond to changing IR regulations and compliance.
National Farmers Federation president David Jochinke said it was time to push back against those who seek to diminish Australian agriculture and instead focus on solutions that will keep farmers farming.
Stating that NFF stood ready to work with policymakers, Mr Jochinke called for a change in policies and better understanding of the agriculture industry, to ensure farmers’ voices are heard so they continue to efficiently produce food and fibre.
While the Federal Government has played a positive role in regaining access to Chinese rural commodity markets, it is mostly comprised of politicians from city and suburban electorates, and with ministers having limited experience and knowledge of rural and regional affairs.
The government needs to demonstrate a better understanding of the industry’s unique challenges and engage with farmers and the rally’s demands for the sector - a sector still majority comprised of family businesses exposed to climate change and uncertain markets – price takers rather than price setters.
Our primary industries maintain food security, produce billions of export income for the national economy and are the lifeblood of our regional communities.