August 26, 2013
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation has called on the State and Federal governments to co-operate to ensure that funding to repair riparian areas and farms from the Australia Day floods was delivered on the ground to deliver “real outcomes” for farmers and the community.
It follows questions last week about how the $20 million on-farm productivity and riparian recovery program would be funded, with State Minister Andrew Cripps accusing the Commonwealth of reneging on its half of the funding commitment.
“This program is one that industry sees as vital for targeting the right areas to help fix the damage, including on farms,” a QFF spokesman said.
“Therefore, any suggestion that Prime Minister Rudd has put the Commonwealth funding in doubt needs urgent clarification by Mr Rudd.
“QFF understands that much work is already underway, and industry is continuing to engage with the State Government to see that it directs funding to the most-needed areas.
“Given the scale of the disaster, this funding will only begin the process of restoration – but it is a vital first step that needs commitment from all levels of government.”
- Related article: Confusion Over $20m Flood Program
