Senate debates

Thursday, 13 February 2020

Motions

Agriculture Industry

12:14 pm

Photo of Janet RiceJanet Rice (Victoria, Australian Greens) Share this | | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate—

(a) notes:

  (i) the growth in farmer-led action across Australia to adopt regenerative agricultural practices which are increasing soil health and carbon, and improving biodiversity and water systems,

  (ii) that regenerative agriculture practices have the potential to address drought, flood and desertification issues currently faced by Australian farmers and land managers, and which are exacerbated by global heating and the climate crisis, and

  (iii) that the second annual National Regenerative Agriculture Day is being held in Australia on 14 February 2020, sharing practices and information amongst primary producers nationally; and

(b) calls on the Federal Government to support agricultural practices that contribute to improving soil carbon, water systems and biodiversity, and which increase the resilience and health of our food and fibre production in Australia.

Photo of Jonathon DuniamJonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | | Hansard source

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Photo of Scott RyanScott Ryan (President) Share this | | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Photo of Jonathon DuniamJonathon Duniam (Tasmania, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries) Share this | | Hansard source

Our farmers understand more than anyone else that the health of the environment and their land is intrinsically tied to their profit and loss. The government has a range of programs designed to support sustainable farming practices that deliver increased productivity and improve biodiversity outcomes. This includes around $1 billion in Landcare, the Agriculture Stewardship Package announced last year and the $5 billion Future Drought Fund. These programs also support achieving the $100 billion ag sector 2030 target.

Question agreed to.