Julie Collins new Federal Agriculture Minister

UPDATED:

Tasmanian Primary Industries Minister Jane Howlett has called on Ms Collins to axe the “flawed” biosecurity levy Bill and immediately fund its share of the Greater South-East Irrigation Scheme so that the project can be delivered. 

She also called on Ms Collins to help fight for an expansion to the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES) to help reduce the cost of freight for fodder and feed for all of Tasmania, as many Tasmanian farmers battle through drought conditions. 

“Minister Collins has a real opportunity to stand up for Tasmanians in these important areas, and I look forward to working productively with her to get the best outcomes for Tasmania’s farmers,” Ms Howlett said.

YESTERDAY:
Tasmanian Labor MP Julie Collins has been announced as the new Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made the announcement today as part of a Ministerial reshuffle which saw former Minister, Murray Watt moved to Employment and Workplace Relations.

Ms Collins has been the Federal Labor MP for Franklin since 2007 and previously held the positions of Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness and Minister for Small Business. She retains the position of Minister for Small Business.

The appointment of a Tasmanian MP to the agriculture portfolio is expected to be welcomed by local farmers keen to see progress on key issues including the south-east irrigation scheme, and the controversial biosecurity levy.