The Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association today welcomed the state government’s early action to review legislation and regulations that affect the business of farming.
The government today announced the so-called ‘right to farm’ legislation, the Primary Industry Activities Protection Act, would be first cab off the rank.
“It is a bit misleading: this legislation does not enshrine the right to farm. It deals with one issue only – and that is farmers’ ability to continue to carry out their businesses without undue interference when urban housing begins to encroach on traditional farming land. New non-farming neighbours who might have other lifestyle expectations need to be made aware of the possible impacts of farming activities before they move into farming zones,” TFGA chief executive Jan Davis said today.
“This review is an important move, but it is not the be all and end all of what we need.”
Ms Davis said the review of the act should be the first step in a broad evaluation of regulations that impact on agriculture.
“The agriculture sector in Tasmania is hampered by a disproportionate regulatory burden,” she said.
“We carry an unfair amount of the regulatory environment in Tasmania, with the inevitable result that the sector is held back and restricted from reaching its ultimate potential. Farmers are seeking a sensible, simplified and transparent regulatory environment so that they can get on with their businesses – growing food and fibre; and creating investment, wealth and jobs,” Ms Davis said.
TFGA chief executive Jan Davis
