10 February 2014
My Sunshine Coast
“The issues paper is an important opportunity for rural and regional communities in Wide Bay to have their say on the issues currently facing agriculture.
“This is a time of change and difficulty for farmers and graziers in the Wide Bay region and indeed, across Australia. There is no better time for people to have their say on how we can build a stronger agriculture sector in this region and across the nation, that delivers a greater return at the farm gate and for our country.
“Whether you crop, raise livestock, or work in a rural community, everyone has ideas about how we can go about improving our primary production industries. This is an important opportunity for anyone associated with rural industry in Wide Bay to do precisely that,” Mr Truss said.
The paper identifies key matters such as finance, competitiveness through the value chain, reducing inefficient regulation, enhancing agricultural exports and managing drought. The issues outlined will guide the development of the White Paper.
“I have heard recently, many stories of hardship by primary producers, particularly during my recent trips through the electorate, but I have also heard positive things. People in our communities have many good ideas about planning for the future. I would say to those people, get involved, use this opportunity to channel your ideas into the white paper process.
“Reinvigourating agriculture is a major part of the Federal Government’s plan to strengthen the five pillars of our economy. We need a stronger agricultural sector as part of our plan to generate jobs and deliver a more prosperous and robust economy,” said Mr Truss.
Written submissions are also sought and these can be lodged via the website. To find out more visit www.agriculturalcompetitiveness.dpmc.gov.au
Submissions are due by 5pm EST 17 April 2014.
WARREN TRUSS
Federal Member for Wide Bay
Deputy Prime Minister
10 February 2014
Courtesy of My Sunshine Coast