FARMERS in Page will tomorrow have the opportunity to have their say on how Australia can build an agricultural sector that grows and delivers greater return to our nation and the farm gate.
Federal member of Page Kevin Hogan said the national taskforce charged with developing the Government’s White Paper on Agricultural Competitiveness will hold a series of closed-stakeholder meetings in Lismore tomorrow (Wednesday).
“The stakeholder meetings will allow our local farmers and food producers to have a significant input into the development of the White Paper,” he said.
The taskforce is currently touring the nation and will visit 25 towns and regional centres, and the eight capital cities to consult with industry leaders, farmers, and those in sectors connected to the land like transport and banking.
Agricultural minister Barnaby Joyce released the issues paper in February, calling on people to get involved.
The issues paper identifies the key matters the government would like input on and will guide the development of the White Paper.
Issues include access to finance, competitiveness through the value chain, reducing inefficient regulation, enhancing agricultural exports and managing drought for the longer term.
The issues paper is open for public comment until April 17 and is available on the White Paper website here
