If the past few weeks prove anything, it is that government has to listen to the rural industries.
To do otherwise is not only undemocratic, it’s irresponsible and risks the livelihoods, and lives, of people on the land.
For decades, AgForce and the primary industries generally have implored the state government to seriously rethink its vegetation management laws and practices so people on the land can prevent and manage fire.
Our calls continue to fall on deaf ears.
Then the state suffered the most devastating bushfires it has ever seen, sweeping uncontrollably through poorly managed conservation areas and unable to be checked by landowners because of incomprehensible vegetation management laws.
Then, as the last embers were extinguished by exhausted producers and firefighters, the government delivered another kick in the guts, closing the irreplaceable agricultural colleges at Longreach and Emerald — a decision made without adequate consultation with industry or community.
There are numerous examples of the city-focused government believing it knows more than the primary producers and rural communities that are so profoundly affected by the decisions it makes.
Part of their mindset is that the urban vote, especially in the southeast, is more important to their electoral agenda than rural voices, who are also seen as ‘less educated’ and ‘less sophisticated’.
Some governments are good at listening and some aren’t, regardless of their political persuasion. But the current state government is increasingly demonstrating a tin ear when it comes to rural Queensland.
We have to forge our own path. The leadership displayed by the primary industries’ peak bodies, including AgForce, has been the bedrock of this approach.
Our success is based on the support of our communities and families. More than half of the state’s producers are committed to our agenda and demonstrate this support by becoming members.
Imagine what the primary industries could achieve if everyone got behind their peak body. The government would have to listen.