Sector seeks a contest of ideas

BEFORE getting into this week’s column, TasFarmers would like to acknowledge and congratulate three outstanding Tasmanians on receiving the Order of Australia Medal. 

Former chairman David Gatenby has been a tireless and steadfast advocate for the agricultural industry and rural communities, making a monumental impact through his leadership.

Likewise, David Downie has been recognised for his dedicated community service and instrumental roles in local government and agriculture. 

Marion Woodward was recognised for more than 40 years of involvement in agricultural shows and events, their contributions have strengthened our industry and our community.

This week we are focused on the federal election which may not have been called yet, but the unofficial campaign is impossible to miss. 

Tasmania has already emerged as a critical battleground. 

The northern electorates of Bass, Braddon, and Lyons will be pivotal in determining the path to government for the major parties.

In this tightly contested race, Tasmania’s electorates are more than numbers on a political analyst’s map. 

All three seats are steeped in agricultural heritage, where farming is the backbone of local communities, driving both regional economies and identities. 

Polls and pundits predict a narrow result, with some speculating about the possibility of a minority government. 

With two of the most unpopular leaders in modern times heading the major parties, voters are facing a unique decision. 

This election should not only set the platform for the next three years—it is an opportunity to chart a course for Tasmania’s long-term future and win over the Australian electorate. 

A robust contest of ideas is needed to address the sustainability and resilience of our agricultural industry and rural communities. 

TasFarmers believes we are at a pivotal moment to clearly articulate our state’s priorities. 

As a statewide organisation representing primary producers, we are committed to advocating for the federal reforms and investments needed to secure a thriving agricultural sector and support our member’s future. 

One of the most pressing challenges facing Tasmanian farmers is the high cost of freight, which undermines competitiveness. 

This election, we will continue to push for a fairer and more efficient Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme, with measurable and meaningful reforms. 

Irrigation remains another critical priority, underpinning industry productivity. 

While federal funding commitments for the Greater Southern Irrigation Scheme are welcome, we also need investment in the Tamar Val ley Irrigation Scheme and a broader strategy to modernise and expand irrigation infra structure statewide. 

These upgrades will maximise the potential of existing farmland and unlock new opportunities for agriculture. 

Value-adding to local pro duction is another area that must be prioritised to reduce reliance on mainland supply chains. 

Expanding meat processing facilities, for example, would provide significant opportunities for regional economies and create more resilient local industries. 

Members have been clear: farms need urgent support to cut through red and green tape to remain competitive. 

Rising input costs, combined with regulatory burdens, have created a cost-of-doing-business cri sis for Tasmanian farmers that demands immediate attention. 

Rural communities are also facing unique challenges in healthcare. 

Geographic isolation, limited resources, and inadequate access to both public and private facilities have created significant disparities between regional and metropolitan areas. 

Access to quality healthcare is critical to safeguarding the long-term well-being of farmers and their families. 

We stand at a crossroads, as this election offers the opportunity to not only deliver short term solutions but also to create a vision for the future of our state’s agricultural industry and rural communities. 

At TasFarmers, we are com mitted to ensuring that vision is heard loud and clear. 

We would challenge the Min ister for Agriculture and the Shadow Minister to publicly debate the future of Australian agriculture, here in Tasmania.

This election we look forward to a content of ideas that puts agriculture front and centre to ensure the voice of farmers is heard and their contribution recognised.