Victoria Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh

No Better Time To Recognise Victoria’s Farmers

Victor P Taffa

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Peter Walsh has recognised the contribution Victorian farmers make to the country’s economy this Australia Day.

“This year, 2012, is Australian Year of the Farmer and there is no better time to focus on past achievements and also the future of our farming industries, communities and the businesses that supports them.” Mr. Walsh said.

“Victoria has much to boast about when it comes to agriculture, but our farmers also put in a lot of hard work to achieve that great reputation for quality food.”

“Food does not just miraculously appear – it needs hard work, land, water, plants and animals. The Victorian Coalition Government supports farmers and sees a vibrant future for the agricultural sectors across the state.”

Victoria was Australia’s largest producer and exporter of sheep meat in 2010-11, accounting for 41 % of Australian lamb production with a farm gate value of around $1 Billion. It is also the largest vegetable exporting state and accounts for 24 % of total Australian production.

The Victorian dairy industry produces 65 % of Australia’s milk production and 86 % of its dairy product exports, while the beef industry is the second largest agricultural industry and exported $615 Million worth of exports in 2010-11.

Mr. Walsh said the whole community benefited from the contribution farmers made, not just to the economy but through volunteer participation with Landcare groups, CFA brigades and sporting bodies.

“Farmers are the nation’s most dedicated carers for the environment and have a financial interest in maintaining the health of the land they manage.” Mr. Walsh said.

“Also, we know Victoria’s farmers uphold the world’s highest standards of animal welfare, underpinned by rigorous codes of practice and processing standards.”

Mr. Walsh said the Victorian Government was committed to encouraging and supporting local farmers so they could continue to do what they do best; producing high quality food and fibre not only for Australia but the rest of the world.