Fresh Parliament, Clear Priorities: Farmers Call for Action, Not Uncertainty

TasFarmers is urging Tasmania's newly commissioned government and all parliamentarians to prioritise cooperation and clarity as the new parliamentary term begins, warning that rural communities cannot afford more political instability.

TasFarmers President Ian Sauer said every new government is a chance for a clean start, but if parliament is to deliver real outcomes for Tasmania, then elected parliamentarians need to stop posturing and start working together.

“The Liberal Party won the most seats and must be given clear air to form a government and get on with running the state, with the support of others in Parliament.

“It’s clear that the broader Tasmanian community, not just farmers, expect a stable, functioning parliament.  Nobody wants another election in 12 months or less. The business community won't tolerate it, and nor will regional Tasmania,” Mr Sauer said. 

“Farmers continue to face ongoing and significant challenges, including international market fluctuations, rising costs, evolving consumer preferences, and a changing climate. Never before has there been a greater need for a strong and collaborative approach to government. 

TasFarmers sent all parties an election brief outlining the key policies important to agriculture. Only the two major parties responded meaningfully.  Mr Sauer warned about the risks of backroom deals and shifting alliances, with minor parties and the independents having no depth in policy.

“Alarm bells are ringing as we haven’t even seen the Greens’ agriculture policies or any great depth of ideas from independents.  It’s about transparency and representation. If a small minority of parliamentarians ends up dictating to the rest, that isn’t democratic."

“If there's a vote of no confidence in the government, that isn't the parliament working collaboratively.

Mr Sauer said any deal formed with a major party must prioritise rural policy to shape the long-term future of the agricultural sector.

Mr Sauer said, "Our election platform aligns with many government priorities. So we want to sit down, do the work, and build something with the government."

The organisation reiterated its commitment to working constructively with whoever holds the Agriculture portfolio, urging the government to lean into collaboration early in its term.

"In the first 100 days, we’re calling for the Minister and the direct department reports to actively work with us on policy development. That’s a strong, achievable signal of good faith and good governance," Mr Sauer said.