Tired of waiting for the Premier to visit their drought ravaged properties, South Australian farmers today visited Parliament House, demanding action from the Government as they battle some of the driest conditions in 33 years.
Standing alongside Leader of the Opposition, Vincent Tarzia and the State Liberal team in solidarity, farmers from across the state highlighted the stark reality of drought and its devastating impact on primary industries.
“Farmers are no longer just asking for help - they’re begging for a lifeline,” Mr Tarzia said.
“These hardworking South Australians are now taking matters into their own hands, coming to Parliament House because they’re tired of waiting for this Government to deliver.
“The support so far has been insulting to farmers, who have waited up to three months for a $5,000 rebate - a drop in the ocean compared to what is needed.
"Six months ago, the Opposition called on Labor to ensure drought preparation was a priority. Now, we’re deep in a drought and farmers are scrambling for feed, forced to sell livestock at a loss because they can’t afford to keep them, and are facing low yields that’ll hurt them for years to come.”
Shadow Minister for Primary Industries and Regional South Australia, Dr Nicola Centofanti said the Premier this week showed just how out of touch he is when he flagged that more drought support may become available in the State Budget... in June.
“These farmers have waited long enough, and the sad reality is, they can’t hold on for much longer, let alone another three months,” Dr Centofanti said.
“They deserve a Government that will listen and support them because agriculture is truly the lifeblood of South Australia.
“Our farmers need support, and they needed it yesterday. The Labor Government must deliver relief - this could be through measures such as additional funding for charity hay delivery, subsidies for water carting, and low or no-interest loans for essentials such as fodder and fertiliser.
“To a city-centric Government this might not seem like much, but to our embattled farmers, this could be the difference between hanging on or losing everything.”
