August 2024
Amid the cost-of-living crisis, it is crucial to recognise agriculture’s vital role in the NT’s economy and communities. Agriculture is more than an industry; it is the backbone of rural areas, supporting livelihoods, driving businesses, and fostering growth. Any disruption could have serious consequences, especially in times when stability is essential. The live export ban years ago is a stark reminder—NT pastoralists are still waiting for compensation from that rash Southern error.
Farming sustains livelihoods, fuels local economies, and contributes to the broader regional economy. Each farm is part of the community, supporting jobs and providing markets for local services. Agriculture impacts all aspects of life, from the food on our tables to the economic stability of our communities. The agricultural industry is just one of the very few that can provide ongoing jobs in a regional setting.
Territory farmers are stewards of the land, deeply connected to their environment. Many spend time on the rivers and land (fishing and camping) that they rely on, strengthening their commitment to preserving natural resources. They ‘live work and play’ within our unique Territory lifestyle. Sustainable farming practices are essential for both current and future generations to maintain the ecological balance crucial to life in the NT.
However, Territorians do not appreciate being dictated to by well-meaning but often misguided voices from the south. The NT is unique in its environment, culture, and way of life. We’ve seen mistakes made in southern agricultural practices that led to environmental damage and economic hardship—errors we cannot afford to repeat. While we may listen to outside perspectives, we must ultimately forge our own path, balancing sustainable practices with the needs of Traditional Owners and protecting our environment.
Land development and water management are areas where balance is critical. Territory farmers are committed to responsible land use and sustainable water management. They understand the importance of careful resource management to ensure availability for future generations. Legislators must support these efforts with clear, enforceable regulations that protect natural resources while allowing agriculture to grow. The NT already has a sound regulatory framework in place. For example, water licenses come with conditions—staged allocations and adaptive management can reduce a farmer’s water access to zero if environmental conditions require it. Some international farmers/investors have been working for 6 years to step through the various regulatory requirements that protect the NT environment and culture.
Rash policy decision by Legislators will jeopardise farming’s future, leading to job losses, business closures, and economic downturns that would devastate rural communities. Agriculture needs stability through policies rooted in science that are environmentally sound, economically viable, and culturally aware.
Territory farmers should not be held accountable for past mistakes made elsewhere. They should be recognised for learning from southern errors and applying those lessons for a prosperous future. Some environmental lobbyists (some might say zealots) may question this progress, but the irony is that avoiding past mistakes is precisely what we advocate. By learning from others’ errors, we can build an economy that respects the environment and honours our region’s cultural heritage. Territory farmers have learnt and continue to learn despite those learnings being hypocritically dismissed by environmental (and often Southern) zealots. Some Territory environmental lobby zealots say they want stronger regulations when in fact what they really want is zero development.
Agriculture is the lifeblood of our regional communities. Protecting this sector is essential for securing a prosperous future for the NT. By supporting our farmers with stable and sound policies, we ensure agriculture remains a source of strength and stability for years to come.
Greg Troughton
CEO
NT Farmers