Member for Murray Helen Dalton with MP Tara Moriarty in Griffith in April. Photo: Helen Dalton MP.
The NSW Government will introduce legislation to parliament in September to establish a statutory office of an independent Agriculture Commissioner to deliver a “co-ordinated and collaborative approach” across all tiers of government and the agriculture sector.
The establishment of an independent position was an election promise from Labor and the commissioner will advise the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) concerning agricultural land use and the creation of a more sustainable and productive agricultural industry in the state.
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said it was an “important milestone” that would ensure the government received independent, expert advice on policies and issues facing the state’s primary industries.
“Farmers are the lifeblood of NSW, from the food we eat, to the clothes we wear, and it is important there is an independent commissioner advising government on how we can enhance farmers’ productivity,” she said.
“The advice of the commissioner to me will be used to inform evidence-based decisions on policy and programs that can best promote our agricultural sector.”
The establishment of an independent commissioner follows strong advocacy from farmers in the wake of a challenging decade of floods, bushfires, drought, biosecurity incursions and the impacts of COVID-19 on global supply chains.
Farmers are on the front lines of dealing with the increasingly volatile climate and the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure that has overtaken large amounts of agricultural land.
The commissioner will chair a pilot Farm Practices Panel to review the agricultural industry codes of practice, to help provide consistency in planning decisions and potential land use conflict.
“There are a number of challenges, including increasing competition for rural land from population growth and demand for housing, demands from industrial and service providers, energy production, increased investment within the agricultural sector and a need to improve carbon and biodiversity outcomes,” Ms Moriarty said in December.
“Our primary producers need clarity about how these emerging issues will impact them.
“It is our job to develop strategies that will support strong primary production whilst balancing other competing land use priorities for the benefit of the economy, environment and communities to inform strategic planning decisions and support a more sustainable and productive agriculture industry.”
Tenders opened late last year, welcoming applications from skilled and experienced industry professionals, with a three-year appointment to be made once the legislation passes parliament.
Original Article published by Chris Roe on Region Riverina.
