Held at the National Press Club in Canberra earlier this month, the event was opened by Federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt and addressed by Shadow Agriculture Minister David Littleproud, and included a cross-section of senior government, industry and organisational representatives.
Attendees included grower representatives, fertiliser, agricultural chemicals, insurance and seed sector participants.
New technologies, particularly in the fertiliser industry, were discussed in depth, with keynote presentations on urea made from electrolysis technology and coated urea.
GrainGrowers chair Rhys Turton said the event was significant, with those present committed to finding workable solutions to various pressing problems.
“When senior decision-makers openly communicate, share insights and exchange ideas, it provides the best possible opportunity to drive change,” he said.
Mr Turton said attendees robustly discussed the reality of the situation facing growers.
“One area of discussion covered the barriers to entry, particularly concerning the high cost of manufacturing inputs in Australia and our subsequent reliance on overseas supply chains.
“Not surprisingly, there was support around the room for the government to step forward and support industries looking to transition to a higher percentage of local manufacturing in the future.”
Senator Watt acknowledged the economic contribution of the grains industry and the range of pressures imposed on the supply chain over the past few years.
He said the issue of fertiliser supply was significant, with prices strongly linked to energy prices.
He suggested that increased domestic production of inputs including fertiliser was on the radar for government and pointed to $500 million set aside in the proposed National Reconstruction Fund for agriculture, food and fibre.
Mr Turton said while these decisions could not be taken lightly, GrainGrowers welcomed the presence of the minister and the commitment of government representatives to give due consideration to their concerns.
“We remain hopeful that future discussions can lead to real progress in this area.”
Mr Turton said an area of agreed change was around fertiliser.
“Following this event, GrainGrowers has committed to producing an Inputs of the Future report.
“This report will provide a detailed examination of ways to promote the sensible and economic transition to new technologies that exist or are currently in development.
“A key aspect of this will be to continue discussing with the government its role in helping the industry as part of this transition process.”
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