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Shire of Victoria Plains
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February 20, 2017
Agriculture to be big winner if Nationals returned to Government
The future looks even brighter for WA’s agriculture industry, with The Nationals WA announc-
ing a $277 million commitment to support the ongoing growth of the sector.
Announced by Leader of The Nationals WA Brendon Grylls, the policy will build on the hugely
successful $300 million Seizing the Opportunity in Agriculture initiative made possible by the
Party’s flagship
Royalties for Regions
policy.
“The Nationals WA understand the agricultural sector’s role as an important contributor to the
State’s economy,” Mr Grylls said. “This is why The Nationals WA have allocated a record in-
vestment of over $600 million to agriculture projects since 2008.
“Our new policy shows our ongoing commitment to this important industry by investing into re-
search and development, marketing, infrastructure and education to grow this vital industry.”
The Nationals’ $277 million agriculture policy will deliver:
$87m to continuing the Water for Food program
$63m to fund Local Government lime and commodity routes
$35m to increase grower group grants
$40m to establish and develop and animal research institute in WA
$50m to establish a Crop Innovation and Improvement Fund
$2m to enable the Muresk Institute promote courses
Examining the BAM Act to ensure NRM functions appropriately across all of WA
Exempting stamp duty on Multi-Peril Crop Insurance products for a period of three years
Member for Moore Shane Love MLA said The Nationals WA had a strong record of delivering
for WA’s agriculture sector and the new policy would serve to complement the important work
already undertaken through
Royalties for Regions
.
“Since 2008, we have supported the development of the beef and sheep industries, grower
groups, upgrades to vital infrastructure and improving biosecurity,” Mr Love said.
“The Nationals’ policy maps out a clear path forward for WA farmers to ensure they remain
competitive and profitable into the future.”