The Nationals have thrown their strong support behind this year’s Australian Sheep and Wool Show in Bendigo.
The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said a committed team was attending the show to hear the concerns of regional Victorians first-hand.
Over the three days of the show, Ms Broad was joined by the leader of the Victorian Nationals Danny O’Brien, Senator Bridget McKenzie, the Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland and the Member for Murray Plains Peter Walsh.
“The Australian Sheep and Wool Show is a great success story. Now in its 25th year it is a real credit to the outgoing CEO Margot Falconer and her team,” Ms Broad said.
“It is also a prime opportunity for regional producers to let MPs know of the important issues that are directly affecting them.
“Their concerns include the new National Electricity (Victoria) Amendment (VicGrid Stage 2 Reform) Bill which Labor is introducing into Parliament. The Nationals will strongly oppose this Bill which would allow government officials and transmission companies to enter private farmland without consent and fine landholders who object.
“Under the Bill, landholders who obstruct access to authorised officers could face fines up to $12,210. Refusing to provide identification or proof of ownership may attract penalties over $4,000. Interfering with notices of entry could incur fines of more than $1,200. Corporations face even higher fines, reaching nearly $49,000.
“Many people are also very upset about Labor’s new emergency services tax which came into effect on July 1 and will rip $3 billion extra from Victorians over the next four years. Meanwhile, country CFA brigades—run by volunteers—are still operating out of outdated sheds, with ageing equipment and inadequate support.
In government, the Nationals will scrap this tax, along with four other onerous taxes – the GP health tax; the Air BnB tax; the schools tax; and stamp duty on homes up to $1million for first home buyers.
Other issues include:
- Drought support that is too little and has come too late for many farmers:
- Our crumbling road system;
- Increasing farm crime; and
- Access to health services in the regions.
“It’s clear that Labor can’t manage money and regional Victorians are paying the price.”
Media Contact
Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
