Dear Sir,
Farmers across our region are feeling the pinch like never before. Lack of September rain, ever increasing overheads, endless audits and administration, and what seems like a new tax every other month; meanwhile, their produce continues to fetch less and less on the market. For many, it is becoming harder to see a future for their family in farming on the same land that has supported them and our communities for generations.
These are the very farms that our region was built on, and even now, everything in our region is connected to the agriculture industry. We wouldn’t exist without it.Our small family farmers are the same families that feed families across the state, country and across the world, yet our farmers are being pushed to the edge and instead of lending a hand, the Labor Government keeps piling on more pressure.
Higher taxes, more red tape and a lack of real, tangible support are pushing many to the brink. Our farmers are not just statistics, they are hardworking people who put food on our tables and drive our local economy.
Given the relentless pressures on farmers, it is no wonder nine in ten say they feel ignored and disrespected by the Allan Labor Government.
Instead of treating primary producers as a cash cow, the Allan Labor Government should be backing them and delivering the support needed to strengthen Victoria’s world-class food and fibre industry.
Most are too proud to ever take a cent from the Government, but the Labor Government, both State and Federal needs to start listening and take immediate action to support regional Victorians and protect our farming future. We need practical support, not more talk, task forces, taxes and barriers in the way.
Despite everything being thrown at them, our farmers continue to show the resilience they’re famous for. You are the backbone of our region, and I’ll keep standing up for you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
Jade Benham MP
