Queensland election: L abor water pricing promisewelcomedCotton Australia has applauded a commitment from Queensland Labor to make irrigation water more affordable forfarmers, should it win the upcoming election.
Labor has announced a commitment that should it be re- elected, there will be a 15 per cent reduction in irrigation watercharges for growers who access water from state- owned irrigation schemes, and a 50 per cent cut for fruit and veget ablegrowers.
The promise comes after the LNP announced in July its commitment to cut ting water prices by about 20% should it formgovernment, and that it intended to transition SunWater from an annuity to a regulated asset based (RAB) approach forfinanc ing asset renewals.
Cotton Australia General Manager Michael Murray said the promise by Labor was good news for Queensland cottongrowers.
“We welcome this announcement and thank Queensland Labor for stepping up to the plate to support our growers,” hes aid.
“Queensland ‘s irrigation industry provides vital support to the state’s economy, and our growers work hard to producesome of the best cotton found anywhere in the world.
” By making irrigation water more affordable, more money will be put back in the pockets of our growers at a time theyneed it most after being impacted by the effects of drought and COVID -19.”Mr Murray said it was pleasing that both major political parties had recognised the importance of affordable irrigationwater and were willing to back Queensland farmers.
“The reality is that whoever forms government next week is now committed to providing significant support to irrigatedfarmers, and all electors should consider the announced policies prior to casting their votes,” he said.
“The upcoming election is an important one for the future of Queensland in bouncing back from disasters like drought andCOVID -19.
“All farmers, but particularly cotton growers, will have a big role to play in helping our state on its road to recovery. “
