THE Victorian Farmers Federation has called on the State Government to make strategic investments in agriculture, saying smarter policy and targeted funding in seven priority areas could supercharge the industry and strengthen Victoria’s economic future.
In its submission ahead of the Victorian State Budget in May, the federation outlined key areas it says require urgent attention to unlock growth and secure agriculture’s long term contribution to the state.
The VFF is seeking support to ensure efficient transport and freight networks, protection of productive farmland, equitable access to healthcare, transport and childcare in rural communities, stronger pest control and biosecurity, drought preparedness and water security, productivity enhancing investment in skills, infrastructure and innovation, and tougher protections against rural crime.
VFF president Brett Hosking said the Victorian Government had a “golden opportunity” to invest in the sector’s future.
“There’s no overstating how big the opportunity for growth is. Victoria has the land, skills, infrastructure foundations and global reputation to significantly increase production, create thousands of jobs and generate billions of dollars in additional export revenue,” Mr Hosking said.
He said agriculture was already a major 22 billion dollar industry that indirectly employed more than 150,000 people across the state.
“We’re a major 22 billion dollar industry that indirectly employs more than 150,000 people. Imagine what that could be with some forward thinking initiative and a genuine commitment for the future,” Mr Hosking said.
“We just need the government to invest and tweak policy in the right places and Victorian farmers will do the rest.”
Mr Hosking said the industry must be recognised as a critical sector capable of helping propel Victoria out of debt and towards prosperity.
“Time and time again our industry has proven there’s no better investment than our industry when it comes to economic returns and future growth,” he said.
He argued the federation’s proposals would deliver benefits extending well beyond farm businesses.
“What we’re calling for delivers benefits far beyond the farm gate. Efficient freight networks strengthen exporters and regional economies; water infrastructure protects food security for all Victorians; and skills programs secure the future workforce for the state’s largest manufacturing sector,” Mr Hosking said.
“We’re asking for the State Government to invest for the future and back us in for the betterment of all Victorians.”
