18 October 2013
The peak industry organisation for the plant science sector says that the productivity and sustainability of Australian agriculture should be a bipartisan issue.
Friday 18 October 2013 (Canberra) – The Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon MP’s appointment to the position of Shadow Minister for Agriculture is welcome news for Australian farming and the supporting agribusiness sector.
“During his time as Minister for Agriculture, Shadow Minister Fitzgibbon demonstrated a passion for agriculture and a desire to engage with the farming and agribusiness sectors. The plant science industry is looking forward to working with him again,” CropLife Australia CEO, Matthew Cossey said today.
“Farmers, agribusiness and the community alike will benefit from the interest and perseverance that the Shadow Minister brought to his previous roles. Having an engaged advocate for agriculture on both sides of politics is more important for Australia’s farming sector than ever before.
“Removing productivity hurdles and unnecessary red tape for the nation’s farmers and agribusiness is vital for the long- term viability of Australian agriculture. CropLife hopes that the Shadow Minister will put forward a clear, positive plan for Australian agriculture that will prioritise evidence-based policy and investment in the future of Australian food, feed and fibre production.
“Encouraging investment in innovation and allowing Australian farmers access to the same tools at the same time as their international competitors should be a platform with bi-partisan support.
“CropLife is looking forward to working with both Shadow Minister Fitzgibbon and Minister Joyce to ensure a strong, productive future for Australian agriculture,” concluded Mr Cossey.
Contact: Jessica Lee (Manager – Public Affairs) Ph: 02 6230 6399 Mob: 0410 491 261
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