As a nation we are grappling with uncertainty and forced into a position where our everyday lives have been fundamentally changed. Panic buying, or simply just a change in lifestyle, can be attributed to a higher demand on staple foods on our supermarket shelves.
As primary producers we are fortunate that we can carry on with our innovative farming practices and have our children and grandchildren benefit from the learnings that challenge us each day.
We have the opportunity to show the strength and importance of Agriculture right now as a whole. Rice is a staple diet in many countries across the world and we are seeing them protecting their local supply. Now our own supply is diminished. As Southern Basin irrigators, we know that smart water reform is capable of providing us with a water allocation which will provide more than enough rice to feed our nation, and as a nation we have to ask the question; What is most important to us?
As an organisation representing you, our members, now more than ever we need to be ensuring the government is driving policy for smart water reform that underpins our own high-quality domestic food supply. We have the capability to feed many millions across the world with the best. Let’s make sure it’s right here first.
With many reviews, inquiries and submissions due to be completed and reported on over the coming weeks, we continue to advocate for sound solutions that allow producers to do what we do well. Although we are not meeting face to face due to our current restrictions, I can assure you that the teleconferences have been plenty (should have bought shares in an online meeting provider). It is important that we see all these inquiries come together at one point, where the recommendations for solutions are made with one, strong collective voice.
All of the RGA staff are working hard from home at this time to ensure we maintain momentum in all policy areas.
Robert Massina,
President,
Ricegrowers' Association of Australia