Investment in trade, workers & climate headline NFF’s budget asks
Farmers have provided a detailed list of what Government can do to propel the sector’s contribution to Australia’s COVID-19 economic recovery and to support its continued prosperous future. Headlining the NFF’s 2021-2022 pre-budget submission is a call for government to invest in the development of a long-term agriculture trade strategy. "Recent disruptions will cost the industry $36.9 billion this decade," CEO Tony Mahar said.
On-farm water recovery continues despite Minister’s promises
The Victorian Farmers Federation is calling for the Commonwealth Minister for Water Resources to keep his word and stop on-farm water acquisition to meet the 450GL up-water target in addition to the Murray Darling Basin Plan. VFF Water Council Chair Richard Anderson said he was disappointed the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture and Water is continuing to pursue on-farm water recovery despite the Federal Water Minister Keith Pitt’s promise not to do so.
Let’s rename Clarence Way the Pothole Way
Classification is crucial when it comes to funding roads. Clarence Way is classified as a regional road and not a rural road. This affects state funding. Kyogle mayor Danielle Mulholland said it put Clarence Way in the same pool as roads in Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie and this meant tougher competition for funds.
Kookaburra Calling – is it time to form the state of Riverina?
Kookaburra has noticed that the movement to create a state of Riverina has been re-charged in recent weeks. The main driver behind this movement is Mr. David Landini, a Riverina wool broker, based in Wakool ... A key issue is the Murray Darling Basin Plan which has left many rural communities very dissatisfied and fearing for their long-term survival. The reduction in the number of rural electorates is another point of focus ...
$940,000 boost for water infrastructure in Stanthorpe to drive bushfire recovery
Local water infrastructure in Stanthorpe will get a $940,000 boost, as part of $8.9 million in bushfire recovery projects announced today by the Australian and Queensland governments. Maranoa MP David Littleproud said this project is one of nine Local Economic Recovery projects were announced today to support recovery in Queensland communities hit hard by the 2019-20 bushfires, including two exciting projects in Maranoa. “In our area, $940,000 will go to the Southern Downs Regional Council for the Smart Water Meters project,” Mr Littleproud said. “This project will install smart metering technology in Stanthorpe, which will help to adapt the built environment to future climate and natural hazard conditions.
