The Federal Labor Government has scrapped the National Soils Advocate and cut funding to programs that previously had bipartisan support.
Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud has said that the decision was disappointing and it showed Labor was turning its back on agriculture, with National Soils Advocate, the Hon Penelope Wensley AC, having now finished her term.
“Once again, Labor is cutting corners and costs when it comes to soils. There is no detail on who or what will replace the National Soils Advocate, even though the Government has had nearly 18 months to plan and this is a crucial position.”
The former Coalition Government set up the National Soil Strategy back in May 2021 and committed $196.9 million.
“We invested in soils because we know soils are imperative for the environment, the economy and our food security and costs. The strategy was to prioritise soil health, empower soil innovation and stewards, and strengthen soil knowledge and capability.”