Strong support for agriculture with key budget investments

Following the release of the state budget today, TasFarmers is pleased to see the government meet its election commitments and announce several new measures supporting the agricultural industry after a challenging 2024.

CEO of TasFarmers Nathan Calman said the government has backed the state's agricultural sector, and are especially pleased to see a range of drought support measures funded in the budget after an incredibly dry 2024.

Mr Calman said, "Farmers recovery from the drought will take time.  Through this budget, TasFarmers will be supported with $150,000 to employ a full-time drought coordinator. This role will provide practical support during recovery and also help the industry build resilience in preparation for any future climate events."  

Building on this, TasFarmers has also lobbied the government to ensure the farming workforce receives the necessary skills and training to grow and diversify agricultural enterprises, securing long-term success.

Mr Calman said, "We are pleased to see funding in the budget of $800,000 to support the promotion of carers in agriculture and attract a future workforce".

"TasFarmers hopes to see a portion of this funding allocated to establish a mentorship program that supports the next generation of farmers, " Mr Calman said.

In addition to nurturing future talent, TasFamers recognises the urgent need to address farm injuries and fatalities which are still far too high in Tasmania.

Mr Calman noted, "We welcome the ongoing government funding of $300,000 to support the Safe Farming Tasmania Program. This annual investment is crucial for managing risks on farms."

"I am also encouraged to see $500,000 allocated over four years for the continued delivery of the on-farm biosecurity engagement program. This funding will significantly enhance farmers' ability to manage risks associated with pests and diseases."

"TasFarmers was pleased to see the budget allocated to support farmers transitioning to Electronic Identification (EIDs) for sheep and goats over the next 12 months,"  Mr Calman said.  

Mr Calman stated the government's support for reducing the agricultural industry's environmental impact is also evident in the budget's allocation of $600,000 (part of a $4 million total contribution) for a nation-leading Low Emissions Livestock Feeding Trial.

"This commercial-scale trial on beef and dairy cattle will help the industry lead the nation in adopting best practices to reduce emissions from ruminant animals," Mr Calman said.

Mr Calman added, "We acknowledge the state government's positive commitment of $75 million to the Greater South East Irrigation Scheme, which now awaits federal government funding to secure the construction of this critical infrastructure.

"This scheme is of vital importance to the state achieving its 2050 agricultural growth target, and the federal government must commit to funding this scheme as a priority," Mr Calman said.  

Reflecting on the budget, TasFarmers supports the government's focus on infrastructure while understanding the challenge of balancing the budget.

"The government's role should be to create an environment conducive to private sector investment, rather than merely spending money.

"We strongly encourage the government to address GBE and planning reforms to enable private investment in the state's economy,"  Mr Calman said.