Agriculture is one of the key pillars of the Tasmanian economy and with ongoing support from the Rockliff Liberal Government it is well positioned to maintain sustainable growth, job creation and a strong, vibrant future for our regional communities.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Jo Palmer said she was particularly proud of Tasmania’s agri-food sector.
“The Tasmanian AgriFood Scorecard showed Tasmanian agriculture had a farm gate value of $2.34 billion and a packed and processed food value of $5.62 billion for the 2020-21 year,” Minister Palmer said.
“The farm gate value is almost double that from 2014.”
The value of seafood was worth nearly $1.2 billion dollars in 2020-21, which is 75 per cent more than in 2014.
The fundamentals of Tasmania’s agriculture are strong, underpinned by significant irrigation infrastructure.
“We know delivery of this high surety irrigation water continues to change the agricultural landscape and give farmers the confidence to invest and diversify,” Minister Palmer said.
Our government also understands the importance of innovation and working with industry.
“Since 2017, $4.15m has supported the primary production sector through the Strategic Industry Partnerships Program with projects including the TAPG Ag Innovation Expo and the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association biosecurity program,” Minister Palmer said.
“A further $2m has been committed through the 2023-24 State Budget into the Agricultural Innovation Fund, which has already supported research into smoke taint in wine grapes and using native seaweed as a feed supplement to reduce livestock emissions.”
Border protections have strengthened through enhanced screening at mail centres and additional measures at entry points.
“Our five-year biosecurity strategy released last week ensures our systems are well placed to protect our valuable Tasmanian brand against future threats from pests and diseases.
“Together with industry and the Commonwealth we are also taking steps to further enhance traceability, through electronic identification of sheep and goat herds.”
The Rockliff Liberal Government is doing what matters to Tasmanians – by investing in our greatest assets – our people, through the $4m joint Farm Business Resilience Program.
“And there’s further support for producers through an extension of the on-farm water infrastructure rebate scheme, providing financial assistance to buy, install or repair damaged on-farm water infrastructure.”
Legislation has also been introduced to support future growth to streamline our hemp industry.
Friday 17 November marks National Agriculture Day, recognising the world class food and fibre grown right here in Australia.
“With the catch cry ‘Grow You Good Thing’ this national day is a chance to celebrate and learn about this incredible sector and to say thank you to those primary producers who are part of our lives every single day,” Minister Palmer said.
“I encourage all Tasmanians to take time this week to recognise our primary producers who continue to punch above their weight.”
