Bipartisan progress is welcome, but we’ll keep the pressure on

As the nation prepares to vote, we have sought the views of candidates and major political parties on the collective concerns of our members, outlined in a clear and concise set of election priorities.

The results are in, and while there are some welcome signs of bipartisan support for Tasmania’s key agricultural priorities, our assessment reflects both progress and a necessary note of caution for those who will be elected to represent regional communities.

There is a strong commitment across the political aisle to investing in freight equalisation, irrigation infrastructure, regional health services, and rural connectivity. This acknowledges the critical role our farmers play in the state's economy and the nation's food security.

Engagement across the political divide is always encouraging, but it is also essential. The challenges facing our sector, including freight costs, water security, digital connectivity and the rising cost of doing business, cannot be left to the high tide of campaign season commitments.

What is needed is long-term certainty and confidence, which can only be achieved with sustained support from across the political spectrum.

We acknowledge the considerable effort made by candidates and parties to engage constructively with our election priorities.

On the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES), the Liberal Party’s $65 million commitment and supporting infrastructure funding earns a 4-star rating. Labor’s $95 million boost over two years is welcome, but its lack of structural reform leaves it with 3 stars.

This highlights the importance of looking past headline figures to what really counts for members. The Greens have committed to supporting reforms to the scheme but have not provided a financial commitment, earning them 2 stars.

On irrigation, both major parties receive 3 stars. We acknowledge and welcome the shared commitment to the South-East Irrigation Scheme. These are positive steps in the right direction.

The Greens’ national approach to water is innovative, but their response lacks the local focus required. While they support global sustainability goals, they have not addressed the need for local delivery, including a commitment to the Tamar Irrigation Scheme. This remains unaddressed by all three major parties.

We would caution political parties that to ignore the people they serve, is not just neglect, it is contempt for the very system of values we inherited through sacrifice.

As the campaign tide recedes, TasFarmers will remain focused on outcomes, not just promises.

We will seek to hold the parties accountable as the tide recedes. We will continue to make representations and scrutinise not just the promises but the outcomes on your behalf. Whatever is delivered should be timely and fit for purpose when it comes to the needs of Tasmanian producers.

We will continue the fight for a fairer and more efficient Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme, advocate for a tri-partisan funding model for new irrigation projects, and push to wake up politicians to the realities of life in regional Tasmania where mobile black spots persist, regional housing solutions are urgently needed, and outdated red and green tape continues to hold communities back.

We invite Tasmanian farmers and supporters to explore the full scorecard and party ratings to help inform their vote this election.

For the full breakdown of how each party performed across our key priorities, and what it means for your farm, visit: tasfarmers.com.au/news/election2025