Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), Media Release, 18 October 2023

The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has welcomed yesterday’s [17 October 2023] release of the new Queensland Water Strategy by the Queensland Government.

The release of the strategy, which marked the commencement of National Water Week 2023, aims to outline how government will deliver a sustainable and more secure water system for Queensland.

QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said water is a critical input for Queensland’s agriculture sector and essential not only for the future success of agricultural growth in Queensland but for rural communities as well.

“It is absolutely critical that a well thought out plan is in place and appropriately resourced,” Ms Sheppard said.

“Agriculture remains one of Queensland’s most important sectors and water is critical to our ability to continue producing some of the world’s best food, fibre and foliage of which our state is renowned for.

“QFF and our peak body members have been advocating for many years on water related issues and appreciated the opportunity to provide input and feedback into the Queensland Water Strategy.”

Delivering the Strategic Water Infrastructure Plan (SWIP), expanding water security, supply and contingency options in south east Queensland, and implementing regional water supply projects were just some of the inclusions in the strategy advocated for by QFF.

Improving dam safety and water security against a challenging backdrop of weather variability, as well using climate science and modelling to understand the effects of changing climatic conditions on our water resources were also important inclusions.

“QFF, alongside our members, appreciated the consultation process that was undertaken which provided agriculture a seat at the table to advocate for the needs of farmers, irrigators, and regional communities more broadly,” Ms Sheppard said.

“QFF looks forward to seeing more detail in the coming months and working with industry and government on the implementation of the strategy.”

You can read the Queensland Water Strategy here.