I am proud to be the Northern Territory’s Agriculture Minister.
Since coming into office I have been fortunate to have been able to get out around the Top End and Central Australia and see firsthand the challenges you face. I am looking forward to continuing to be on the ground, and I plan to get back to the Barkly region in the coming months.
We know this industry is the heartbeat of our bush—driving jobs, sustaining families, keeping the Territory thriving and fuelled by passionate Territorians. This was evident in the huge turnout of delegates at your recent conference. It was a highlight to meet so many members and talk about how this government can help you.
We are committed to advancing this key industry and we will do this by investing in biosecurity, research, land administration, market development, land development, diversification projects, and a wide range of business support services.
Since being in this role, I have heard a lot of talk about Buffel grass and the proposed management plans. Let me be clear: we are not here to make your lives harder. We know Buffel is vital for improved pasture and fodder, and when managed properly, it works. That’s why I’m working closely with Minister Burgoyne to ensure no unnecessary restrictions are imposed on its use in pastoral areas.
I’m looking forward to finding an opportunity to lead an industry delegation to Indonesia and Vietnam this year to affirm the Territory’s support for the live export trade and help broker new partnerships.
Another priority my government is investing in is agricultural innovation. Our eight research farms across the Territory are driving new advancements in herd management, biosecurity, and productivity. I’ve listened closely to feedback from industry, and I’ve directed my department to enhance the capacity of our research farms and improve collaboration with industry when shaping research projects. We want to hear from you, so please do reach out to the department with any research projects that may be beneficial.
As Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, I will continue to fight for infrastructure investment. We want to see this industry continue to meet its full potential and remain a cornerstone of our economy for generations to come.
