It was largely 'business as usual' for the agriculture portfolio, as the state budget was handed down last week.
While overall funding to the Department of Agriculture was down - due to past funding for the National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program having been brought forward and future funding yet to be determined - overall staff numbers were largely the same and slightly increased for biosecurity services compared to the last budget.
Following AgForce Sheep, Wool and Goat Board advocacy the budget included a welcome $4.7 million (for 2022-23) to introduce an individual electronic identification traceability system for sheep and goats, although the final amount is dependent on the Australian Government's contribution.
There was also $1.4 million identified to develop and replace the livestock Brands Information System - also sought by AgForce - and the same amount to upgrade the Wild Dog Barrier Fence.
Other notable inclusions in the budget were:
- $21.7 million over 5 years and $2.8 million per annum ongoing towards biosecurity preparedness for plant pests and diseases to meet emerging threats.
- $1.9 million in 2023/24 towards innovative rapid detection tools to improve the speed at which an animal disease incursion can be diagnosed and managed.
- Up to $48.5 million over 3 years for programs and grants, and $100 million over 2 years for loans, to support drought preparedness, and ongoing operating cost relief for those who are drought declared.
- $1 billion commitment for the Inland Freight Route (Charters Towers to Mungindi), and similar for the Rockhampton Ring Road.
- $35 million over 4 years for planning and community engagement activities around development of the renewable energy industry.
- $22.8 million over 2 years to continue to discount irrigation prices by 15 per cent for one additional year.
- $9.8 million over 4 years to implement an enhanced vegetation compliance model to reduce emissions from unexplained land clearing, with a focus on working with landholders.
A more detailed breakdown of the budget is available here or from your AgForce Regional Manager.
