Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said that the climate change presents a threat to Australia’s primary producers, but it also offers opportunities if we invest now in research and industry preparation. He added that the government has plan to ensure the primary industries remain globally competitive and prepared for the increased risk of pests and disease resulting from climate change.
It is informed that the Australia’s Farming Future initiative is worth $130.0 million over four years, beginning in July this year. Grants of up to $5,500 will be available under the Climate Change Adjustment Programme to provide farmers with professional advice, including improved farm planning and training to update or acquire new skills to manage the risks of climate change, or to prepare for a career change.
The Rudd Government has developed an action plan for Australia’s fisheries to ensure a vibrant commercial fishing industry into the future. Burke said that there are large gaps in Australia’s understanding of the impact of climate change on its fisheries, and so they want to address those gaps. According to Burke the government is fast-tracking the National Climate Change and Fisheries Action Plan to help increase the resilience of Australian fishing sectors to climate change, including wild catch, aquaculture and recreational fisheries.
