Politicians must partner with farmers to avoid job losses

A reported loss of farm jobs due to emissions reduction policies would threaten the state’s food security, NSW Farmers says.

According to the Institute of Public Affairs, 63,765 agricultural jobs – almost half of the total workforce – were at risk because of the emission reduction policies both major parties are taking to the March state election.

NSW Farmers workplace relations spokesman Chris Stillard said the agricultural sector supported the Net Zero target, but the transition had to occur in an orderly way to prevent a dramatic loss of production.

“Australian farmers are arguably the most innovative in the world, but we cannot do more to reduce emissions without advances in technology,” Mr Stillard said.

“For example, diesel remains the only commercially viable fuel for food and fibre production, and for transporting that produce to consumers.

“At the end of the day, every Australian needs farmers to grow their food, and we cannot risk lazy policies that threaten production.”

While the IPA report found the heaviest job losses would occur in the agricultural sector, it also identified farm workers on average produce far fewer emissions than jobs in other industries; oil and gas extraction workers accounted for 2.4kt of CO2 each, while agricultural workers accounted for just 0.36kt. 

The NSW Farmers state election platform contained a number of policies that could help address climate change and secure the future of food production in NSW.

“It’s undeniable the economic and environmental landscape is changing, and that’s why we are calling for the establishment of a dedicated Climate and Emissions Reduction Innovation Fund to help find emissions reduction solutions for farms,” Mr Stillard said.

“We need the research and development funding for farmers to take the next leap forward, and matched funding or low interest loans to encourage the adoption of small-scale renewable energy generation and storage on-farm.

“It is critical we secure ongoing food and fibre production in our state, and balance this important goal with any climate change mitigation policies.”