Australia’s agricultural sector is in crisis, and it is high time we acknowledge the urgency.
Our farmers, who make up a mere 1.2 per cent of the population, are the backbone of our food supply, feeding the other 98 per cent.
Yet, for years, state and federal governments have turned a blind eye to their struggles, believing that “she’ll be right.”
This complacency is not only misguided but dangerous.
If we don’t support our farmers, we will see a sharp rise in food prices and the loss of hardworking farmers who have sustained our nation for generations.
The current trend of selling off prime agricultural land to corporate giants and foreign investors is a grave mistake.
These entities often lock up the land, leaving it unused and stifling the growth of our local farmers. This is particularly harmful during times of drought, when our farmers need every bit of support to keep their operations running.
Allowing these deep-pocketed outsiders to control our land and resources is not in Australia’s best interest. It’s akin to holding our farmers, and by extension, all Australians, hostage.
The recent ban on live sheep exports is just the beginning.
The government’s shortsightedness will soon extend to cattle and other produce, further crippling our agricultural sector.
They offer no viable alternatives, leaving our farmers to bear the brunt of these ill-conceived policies. While the federal government has promised $100 million to support meat producers, history shows this will likely end up in the pockets of those already profiting, rather than reaching the farmers who need it most.
It’s incomprehensible that we are importing products like oranges from the US when our own farmers can supply them. Successive governments have turned their backs on Australian farmers, allowing imports that devastate our local markets.
This must stop.
Our farmers need fair policies that allow them to expand and thrive without being overshadowed by larger, wealthier entities.
Agriculture is an essential service.
If we continue down this path, we will end up relying on cheap, contaminated imports, compromising the quality and safety of our food. The frustration and anger in the farming community are palpable.
We must rally and support our farmers before it’s too late.
A revolt is brewing, and rightly so. We need to stand up for our farmers, who have fed us for generations.
By protecting them, we protect our future and ensure the security of Australia’s food supply.
Let’s make it clear: enough is enough.
It’s time to stand with our farmers, fight for their rights, and demand the support they deserve.
The fate of our agriculture and our nation’s food security and quality depends on it.
Glenn Dewhurst is a City of Gosnells councillor.
