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Move for united front on drought
15 Apr 2004
Federal and state governments promised yesterday to put aside their differences in order to support farmers battling with drought. After an historic summit meeting in Canberra, the Federal Agriculture Minister said there was a new spirit of co-operation which will allow drought aid programs to be reformed.
About 62 per cent of Australia is still in the grip of drought, with NSW faring worst and Queensland and Victoria close behind.
Yesterday's summit meeting heard of farmers' concerns about constant friction between federal, state and territory governments. The National Farmers' Federation pleaded for a common approach to drought preparedness, management and recovery. NFF president Peter Corish called for enhanced incentives to help farmers.
The summit resolved to aim to have reforms in place by the end of this year. Issues and the way forward will be discussed at a meeting of all primary industries ministers in Adelaide next month.
The Courier-Mail, 15/4/04, page 10.
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