The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has met with key industry leaders to help prepare for emerging issues facing the State’s agriculture and livestock sectors.
Industry leaders from WA Farmers, Grower Group Alliance, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, Rural West, Cooperative Bulk Handling, Rural Business Development Corporation, the WA Meat Industry Association, sheep consultants and senior DPIRD staff were joined by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis yesterday to discuss the challenges of the current season.
DPIRD Acting Deputy Director General of Primary Industries Development David Ferris said it was important to hear from industry to gauge the full extent of emerging issues for the season and how Government could assist.
Dr Ferris said industry was looking to the Government to help increase confidence in the industry by supporting a broader range of options for turning off stock and market access.
He said attendees also raised the need for timely technical advice and information to support those who may not have experienced difficult seasons and market conditions before.
“The 2023-24 season has dried off significantly, and livestock prices have fallen dramatically creating some very hard conditions for some farmers,” Dr Ferris said.
“DPIRD is committed to working with industry and has a strong focus on supporting mental health, land condition and animal welfare, as well as associated businesses.
“We want to ensure that farmers and business owners experiencing seasonal distress have access to the relevant support services.”
Dr Ferris said DPIRD would continue to monitor the season and update information to support industry through its web content on the Season 2023 webpage and related field days and other events.
“DPIRD has stood up a seasonal response team across the department to ensure we have the resources and expertise to focus on supporting industry through the next 4-6 months,” he said.