Canegrowers will be urging all political parties standing in ‘sugar seats’ this federal election to commit to measures which secure the future growth and prosperity of this important Queensland industry.
Canegrowers chairman Paul Schembri said at a meeting of the grower organisation’s Policy Council in Townsville this week that they’re seeking commitments and assurances around five policy areas vital for a profitable future for farmers and the regional economies and communities the industry supports.
“Sugar is a valuable export commodity for Australia, the second largest for Queensland, with 80 per cent of our production going offshore. 81,000 people work directly and indirectly in our industry which contributes $2 billion to the Australian economy each year,” Mr Schembri said.
“But there are a number of issues which need to be addressed by the next Australian Government, and all politicians, for Australia to maintain its place in the competitive global sugar market.,” he said.
The key areas highlighted in the Canegrowers Federal Election priorities include:
Electricity – The cost of redundant and obsolete assets must be removed from the calculation of network tariffs so farmers can access affordable power for irrigated crop production.
Sugar Tax – Rule out taxing a single ingredient in a single food item and commit to continuing whole-of-diet nutrition education programs.
Trade – Include sugar in all international trade agreements and remove technical barriers to implementing agreements.
Environment – Boost the government support to growers who are changing to best management practices to deliver water quality outcomes to the Great Barrier Reef.
Research and Development – Increase total government expenditure on agricultural R&D from 0.5pc of gross value of production to 1.5pc by 2019.
