PRODUCE : PROVIDE : PROSPER
Meeting Queensland's Agricultural Needs:
9 Priorities to 'Back the Bush'
Biosecurity
Queensland needs robust biosecurity measures to maintain our reputation for safe, clean food and fibre products. Investing in rapid response, research, and risk management is essential to protect our agricultural industry from pests, diseases, and weeds.
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Enhancing the biosecurity workforce, securing long-term research funding, and expanding critical infrastructure like wash-down facilities are crucial steps. Through targeted awareness campaigns and strong policies, we can build a biosecurity culture that supports our farmers and ensures the safety of our food supply. Vote for a stronger, more secure agricultural future.
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We need this to back the bush
01
Sustainability
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Queensland's agricultural sector plays a crucial role in achieving climate and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. Supporting agriculture-led progress with voluntary tools, rather than mandatory requirements, is vital to ensure practical and effective implementation. With increasing expectations around energy planning and nature conservation, it's essential that broadacre producers are not disproportionately burdened.
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Additionally, continual review of the Queensland State Disaster Management Plan is necessary to include specific rural and remote disaster responses. Engaging landholders and their networks in these plans will ensure that agricultural communities are resilient and well-prepared for any challenges.
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We need this to back the bush
03
Land Management and Security
Queensland needs secure agricultural land and water use to promote investment and reduce costs. Confidence in the management of our landscapes and waterways is essential for the health of ecosystems on both state lands and private property.
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A Natural Capital approach will incentivise landowners to preserve and improve ecosystems, benefiting society and supporting agricultural development. By reviewing current legislation, ensuring water supply security, and creating a marketplace for ecosystem services, we can protect landholders' rights and promote sustainable land use. This approach will ensure the preservation of agricultural land for future generations and support the coexistence of agriculture with other land uses.
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We need this to back the bush
04
Market opportunities
Queensland has untapped market opportunities in dynamic commodity markets. To capitalise on these, we must defend and invest in the growth of our live export trade and secure vital supply chain inputs to meet the increasing demand for food and fibre production.
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Promoting Queensland's premium, clean, green, and sustainable produce both domestically and internationally is crucial. By supporting trade negotiations, enhancing processing and packaging capabilities, and maintaining robust food safety standards, we can strengthen our agricultural sector. This approach will ensure strong farm businesses, benefiting our regional economies and securing a prosperous future for Queensland agriculture.
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We need this to back the bush
05
Northern Development
Northern Australia holds immense agricultural potential, already contributing significantly as a major beef and sugar exporter. By fostering new and diversified agricultural industries, we can significantly increase economic output and exports through high-value crops and enhanced pastoral sector productivity.
Key to this development is ensuring equitable access to water and sustainable land management. By addressing regulatory barriers, supporting infrastructure, and investing in research and development, we can unlock the full potential of Northern Queensland. This approach will create jobs, boost the economy, and secure a resilient and sustainable future for the region's agriculture.
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We need this to back the bush
06
Roads
Poorly maintained regional roads are a major barrier to agricultural productivity in Queensland. Enhanced road infrastructure reduces logistics costs, improves market access, and boosts overall productivity for producers.
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Queensland needs a dedicated $500M investment in rural road networks and the removal of red tape allowing landholders to maintain their own roads. By funding upgrades to critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, and ports, we can ensure efficient transport corridors and increased agricultural output. Improved infrastructure will support the economic growth of Queensland's agriculture sector and enhance liveability in regional areas.
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We need this to back the bush
07
Rail & Ports
Queensland's rail freight system is underutilised due to high costs and competition with the resource sector, while our ports require significant expansion to meet future agricultural output targets.
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Queensland needs to maintain, repair, and expand the rail network in rural areas to better serve agricultural industries. Additionally, new port developments and the expansion of existing ports in Northern Australia are essential for equitable market access and fostering competition. Enhancing rail and port infrastructure will boost productivity, reduce road congestion and carbon emissions, and improve safety outcomes, supporting the long-term growth of Queensland's agriculture sector.
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We need this to back the bush
Health, Education, and Telecommunication
All Queenslanders deserve access to quality health services, equitable education, and reliable telecommunications.
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To bridge the gap between rural and urban areas, Queensland needs funding for local healthcare delivery, including mental health and specialist outreach. Increased support for boarding school students, reliable broadband for telehealth and virtual learning, and improved mobile coverage are essential. These measures will enhance liveability, productivity, and social cohesion, ensuring rural communities thrive with better health, education, and connectivity services.
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Workforce
Workforce shortages in Queensland's agricultural sector are a significant barrier to productivity. Sixty percent of agricultural employers report difficulties in finding workers. The reasons for these shortages are complex, including depopulation of rural areas, retention issues, and a lack of understanding of agricultural job opportunities, particularly among city dwellers. The need for skilled employees often cannot be met by unskilled migrants, further exacerbating the problem.
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To build a knowledgeable future workforce, expanding agricultural subjects in schools and promoting ag careers is essential. Programs like AgForce’s Schools to Industry Partnership Program (SIPP) can bridge the gap. Additionally, supporting vocational agricultural colleges and addressing retention issues will ensure a skilled workforce. Encouraging careers in agriculture will enhance output, provide stable jobs, and strengthen regional communities.
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We need this to back the bush