24 Nov 2017
Prior to and throughout this State Election, the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has articulated what matters to the intensive agricultural sector for those running for public office.
The QFF policy platform outlined the 10 major areas of policy action needed to realise our vision for a vibrant and thriving agricultural sector providing food, fibre and amenity to all Queenslanders.
On the eve of the election QFF President Stuart Armitage encouraged voters to consider the policy commitments put forward by all parties and critically consider what is realistic and what will make a positive difference for agriculture.
“A thriving and vibrant agriculture sector is not just good for farmers, it is good for everyone. It’s important that voters remember that because the sector plays a critical role in sustaining their everyday lives.”
“Election campaigns can see some fairly populist commitments made, so people need to make a judgement call about whether those parties that won’t be in control of the Treasury purse strings can deliver on their promises,” Mr Armitage said.
Electricity, water and the energy/water/productivity nexus were priorities for the QFF group this election. Analysis on how the parties performed in these essential policy areas is on the QFF website: ‘QFF analyses electricity, water and productivity election promises’.
Other public statements and commentary by QFF during the campaign on issues that are essential to the future prosperity Queensland farmers and the broader intensive agricultural sector:
- General: ‘Have the political parties delivered for farmers this election?’
- Electricity: ‘Electrical & electoral prices too high’ & ‘Election offers energy spark, but more still needed’
- Water: ‘Affordable and sustainable water key to prosperous agricultural sector’ & “QFF welcomes flow of water infrastructure’
- Jobs & Skills: ‘A strong and thriving agricultural sector delivers Queensland jobs’
- Protecting agricultural land: ‘Prime agricultural land offers prime potential’
- Risk management and climate variability: ‘Farmers call for overhaul of natural disaster support and funding’
- Great Barrier Reef: ‘Farming alongside the Great Barrier Reef has a strong future’
- Vegetation management: ‘Farmers still waiting for a sensible approach to vegetation management’
QFF look forward to constructively working with the government Queenslanders elect tomorrow, and will continue to advocate for a thriving and vibrant agriculture sector in the interest of farmers, regional communities and the state as a whole.
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