WoolProducers Australia welcomes the significant spend for agriculture and regional areas as announced by the Morrison government in Tuesday night’s budget, which also included a number of items aimed at the agricultural sector.
WoolProducers Australia CEO, Ms Jo Hall said “The federal government has announced a number of measures to assist primary producers, the broader agriculture sector, and regional communities and economies.”
A number of WoolProducers’ key asks included in our Pre-budget submission, including increased funding for biosecurity, infrastructure and trade were included in this year’s budget.
“Last week’s announcement of a further $414.5 million to strengthen Australia’s biosecurity system provides a sound basis to maintain and protect our billion-dollar sector.”
“We are particularly pleased to see $67.4 million dedicated to ensuring Australia continues to have a robust biosecurity preparedness and response capability in the event of a pest or disease outbreak.”
“Along with the $29 million for a coordinated approach to feral animal control, which was a specific ask of WoolProducers.” Ms Hall said.
WoolProducers were also satisfied with the announcement of $170 million to strengthen internet and mobile coverage in regional Australia.
“Many woolgrowers live and work in parts of Australia that suffer poor connectivity and provision of telecommunications services”.
“Improvements to regional telecommunications was another key theme of WoolProducers Pre-Budget submission, as reliable and affordable telecommunications is important for farming families in order to access the digital economy for their business, education, health and social needs”. Ms Hall said.
The $15 million spend over the next four years for trade reform and expansion was also welcomed.
“The wool industry exports around 93 per cent of production, with 70 per cent of the value all Australian agriculture products exported, it is imperative that trade and export opportunities are not only maintained but grown”. Ms Hall said.
ENDS
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WoolProducers Australia contacts: Jo Hall, CEO
02 6110 2067
Ed Storey, President
0438 309 500
About WoolProducers Australia
WoolProducers plays a critical role in working closely with companies and entities funded by woolgrower funds including compulsory levies or fees for service.
Its mission is to develop constructive and profitable outcomes for woolgrowers nationally.
The agency is responsible for appointing a director to each of the Australian Wool Exchange and the Australia Wool Testing Authority, promoting good corporate governance and ensuring that the interests of growers are met.
WoolProducers maintains a working relationship with Australian Wool Innovation as the voice of woolgrower shareholders. It aims to contribute to AWI’s programs for the benefit of growers, promoting responsible use of levy funds and ensuring good corporate governance.
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