Australian households face a warning on the cost of living as 34 percent of the nation's vegetable growers contemplate exiting the industry within the forthcoming year. The Vegetable Industry Sentiment Report, released by Ausveg, reveals that half of the growers are in a worse financial position compared to June 2023. According to Nationals Leader David Littleproud, the departure of farmers will lead to reduced supply and increased prices. "Australia risks a third of growers quitting and no farmers means no food," he commented, highlighting the potential impact on every Australian amid rising living costs.
Littleproud also noted workforce shortages affecting nearly half of the vegetable, potato, and onion growers, spanning various employment categories. The report criticizes changes to the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, labeling it ineffective for many growers, with labor costs constituting approximately 38 percent of a grower's expenses. Furthermore, the majority anticipate that employment challenges will persist or escalate.
The 88-day backpacker rule, necessitating regional work for backpackers, was identified as a significant concern, with over 62 percent of growers predicting a severe or critical impact on their operations if removed. Littleproud underscored additional obstacles like rising input costs, retail pricing issues, profitability challenges, and regulatory burdens. He criticized Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for neglecting to engage with farmers' concerns at the National Farmer Rally, accusing the Labor government of failing to support the agriculture sector. "The only way to support the agriculture industry is to change the government," Littleproud asserted, promising that The Nationals would stand by farmers and the food supply.
Source: The National Tribune