RURAL analysts have talked up the virtues of agriculture in the Riverina at the ABARE Regional Outlook Conference in Griffith.
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Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister, Luke Hartsuyker’s delivered the keynote address at the conference this week.
The event attracted 70 farmers and other key stakeholders from the Riverina to hear current commodity data, forecasts and industry analysis to inform their business planning and decision making.
Mr Hartsuyker told the gathering he was optimistic about the future of the agriculture sector.
“The Coalition Government is laying the platform to realise our vision for a prosperous, productive and innovative agriculture sector,” Minister Hartsuyker said.
“We’ve delivered genuine investments and practical actions, headlined by the $4 billion Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper.
“Australian farmers are some of the best in the world and are well-placed to seize these opportunities, backed by world-class, clean and green produce.
“The government is focused on delivering strong farm gate returns—which encourage investment in the sector—and free trade deals and new trade and market access help create the best possible opportunities for our farm businesses to participate in lucrative global markets.
“Innovation is key to the future of the sector. The government invests around $700 million in rural research and development each year, along with our commitment to delivering the Rural R&D for Profit program for eight years.
“By continuing to work together, we can realise a bright and exciting future for our agricultural industries.”
This is the last of the seven Regional Outlook conferences in 2016.
The aim of the event is to engage regional Australians in discussion of key issues affecting the outlook for Australia’s agricultural, fisheries and forestry industries, natural resources and trade.
The Regional Outlook conferences provide an opportunity for government agencies and industry organisations to exchange ideas and information with farmers, businesses and local government.