Rising concerns about the cost and reliability of fertiliser supply have prompted calls for urgent action, with NSW Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson urging the state government to guarantee access to critical inputs so farmers across the Richmond and Clarence valleys, and regional NSW, can continue producing food and fibre.
Williamson said primary producers had, in recent weeks, raised growing concerns about both the price and availability of diesel and fertiliser, including urea, across key agricultural sectors.
He said the situation underscored a simple but critical reality: “no fertiliser, no farmer, no food.”
“Without urgent action, the next crisis facing NSW and Australia could very well be a food and fibre crisis,” Williamson said.
“Our farmers are on the frontline. If they can’t access the supplies they need, they can’t produce. It’s as simple as that.”
Williamson said he had written to NSW Premier Chris Minns, calling for immediate and decisive action to secure diesel and fertiliser supplies for regional communities.
“The situation is now critical for regional producers across industries such as sugar, beef, seafood, timber and macadamias, just to name a few,” he said.
“Regional communities like ours cannot wait any longer. The Government must step up, outline a clear strategy, and guarantee supply before this situation escalates further.”
Williamson said a stable and affordable supply of key farming inputs was essential not only for regional economies, but also for food security across the state and the nation.
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