The McGowan Government has committed to retain strong, year-round horticultural production in the north metropolitan region in the face of declining water availability.
The North Wanneroo Agriculture and Water Taskforce has delivered its report examining water allocation and land use issues in North Wanneroo.
In response to the report findings, the Government will develop a business case for a new leasehold agri-precinct in State Forest 65 in North Wanneroo, incorporating the use of recycled water.
The Government will also invest in a new Water Use Efficiency Program to support growers and industry to assess and promote technology options that improve efficient water use, ensuring industry viability in a drying climate.
North Wanneroo has been a traditional farming area providing seasonal, fresh fruit and vegetable supplies to Perth, interstate and overseas, with an estimated production value of agricultural production of $47.7 million in 2015-16.
The North Wanneroo Agriculture and Water Taskforce report and State Government response can be found at https://www.agric.wa.gov.au
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“Taskforce chair Sabine Winton and the committee have worked hard to deal with this challenge of sustaining urban horticulture in a drying climate.
“North Wanneroo’s agriculture industry continues to make a significant contribution to the local economy and the State’s agricultural exports, and it is important that we keep our existing irrigated land to supply fresh and diverse produce to the people of Perth.
“Now that we have clarity on water allocation for the next 10 years, we can work together with industry to improve water efficiency.
“There are constraints around water availability and growers need to be supported to operate in a drier climate. Our Water Use Efficiency Program will assess techniques and systems to help growers.
“The State Government will work with growers and the local community to develop a water scheme and lead a cost benefit analysis on a new agricultural precinct at State Forest 65.
“We will also be making a case for Commonwealth funding through the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund.”
As stated by Wanneroo MLA Sabine Winton:
“I have listened and consulted widely with all key stakeholders and now we are delivering on our election commitment by resolving water allocation issues that have long caused uncertainty for local growers.
“I am really proud that the McGowan Government has worked to address these complex issues in a holistic manner: we have a sensible way forward which strikes a balance between meeting the needs of our growers and ensuring long-term water sustainability for the wider community.
“I would like to thank Minister MacTiernan for establishing the taskforce and her support of our key recommendations, including a commitment to develop a business case for a new agri-precinct in North Wanneroo.
“As the Chair of the North Wanneroo Agriculture and Water Taskforce, I would like to thank the members for their hard work and contributions.”
