Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the recently released Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper is an indication we have a federal government that is finally thinking about farmers.
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The White Paper is a $4 billion plan on how to best invest in farmers and their practices and was announced by Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Minister for Agriculture Barnaby Joyce, who will be in Wagga on Wednesday as part of a regional tour.
Mr McCormack said there are some very relevant points in the paper for the Riverina and five key areas overall – a fairer go for farm business, building water, transport and communications infrastructure, stronger drought and risk management, smarter and more innovative farming and access to premium markets.
He said it incorporates all the things that help make farmers competitive.
He cites farmers being able to opt back into income tax averaging after 10 years and doubling farm management deposits to $800,000 as big wins.
“They will be able to put away a lot more money without it costing them via the tax office,” he said.
A $500 million national water infrastructure fund was announced with $50 million going towards planning and $450 million for construction.
Mr McCormack said there are two areas in the Riverina – one near Gundagai and another at Lake Coolah near Narrandera – that could benefit from funding for dams or irrigation.
“The Riverina is one of Australia’s greatest food bowls and we are crying out for water infrastructure across the country, so it just makes good sense,” he said.
Mr McCormack said farmers were front and centre at the recent budget announcement and that the White Paper is an extension of those commitments.
“Overall, I think it’s a good and strong document,” he said.
“It’s a really good start and something farmers will welcome for so many reasons.”
View the full Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper at agwhitepaper.agriculture.gov.au.