THE Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA) has joined the chorus of opposition to the recommendations by the Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) to significantly reduce agricultural water availability in the basin.
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ALFA President Jim Cudmore, stated “that the proposal to reduce agricultural water availability by between 27-37pc will not only cause irreparable harm to affected rural and regional communities but will impede the ability of Australia to feed the world”.
“Australia given its abundant agricultural resources has a vital role in feeding the world’s expanding population with around 60pc of our production exported," he said.
“This role is increasing in importance as the world’s population is forecast to hit 9.2 billion in 2050 and global food production is required to more than double between now and then.
“If this were not challenging enough, we are expected to do it with less water, less emissions, less arable land, less fertiliser, less fuel and oil; and if the recent Productivity Commission report recommendations are supported - $60 million less in Government research and development dollars.
“Climate change predictions will also reduce the amount of water in the Murray Darling basin. The MDBA proposal (if supported) will only further aggravate such water issues for agriculture.
“Scientists around the world recognise the future importance of food security. Given that we have already hit peak oil, peak water, peak phosphorous and peak arable land; this issue will only increase in magnitude.
“Whilst Governments have a role to meet the environmental needs of the basin, surely the future food needs of the world should not be impeded in the process.
“Additionally, farmers have experienced below average rainfall and hence profitability over the past ten years in eastern Australia. Is it fair and reasonable to permanently return farmers to this parlous state particularly when relieving rains have only recently occurred?
“This over reaction to reduce the water availability to agriculture will undoubtedly lead to higher food prices in Australia, and may even expose our consumers and producers to increased food imports," Mr Cudmore concluded.
