Election debate to tackle food future

 
Keeping food affordable, renewable energy zones and securing production will feature as part of a key regional debate for voters in Dubbo. 

Designed to focus on key agricultural issues ahead of the state election, the Dubbo debate on Wednesday night will feature Agriculture Minister Dugald Saunders, Shadow Minister Mick Veitch, Greens spokesperson Sue Higginson, One Nation spokesperson Rod Roberts, and Shooters, Fishers, and Farmers spokesperson Robert Borsak.  

NSW Farmers Head of Policy and Advocacy Annabel Johnson said securing the future of agricultural production would be important in the next term of government. 

“We want to hear from all sides of politics regarding their plan to deliver a stronger, more resilient agriculture sector,” Ms Johnson said.  

“Strong food and fibre production into the future will require a coordinated policy approach that supports farmers in their efforts. 

“Issues such as the loss of productive agricultural land and rising input costs, as well as strong supply chains, also needs to be considered.” 

Polling commissioned by NSW Farmers revealed the number one issue for voters was the cost of living with high food and grocery costs likely to make an impact at the ballot box. Ms Johnson said savvy politicians would be finding ways to secure food production in NSW. 

“Farmers grow healthy plants and healthy animals to make the food and fibre we all need, and we have seen the pain that supply chain disruptions can cause for people,” Ms Johnson said.  

“The message we are getting out to decision-makers and voters is that investing in agriculture and its supporting industries now will save a lot of stress down the road, whether it’s better road and rail infrastructure, stronger biosecurity, more research and development, clear workforce strategies, or effective land use planning. 

“We want to highlight that in order to keep food affordable, we need a sustainable and functioning agriculture sector.” 

The Regional Debate: Agriculture will be held at Dubbo RSL from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday, February 22. Visit https://form.jotform.com/holleyt/regional-debate-dubbo-rsvp-form to register for the event, and watch the livestream at facebook.com/NSWFarmers on the night.