The RGA responds to the Government’s announcement on NSW rice vesting

Yesterday, the NSW Government released their response to the 2023 independent report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) on the NSW Rice Vesting Review.

The Ricegrowers’ Association of Australia (RGA) President Peter Herrmann says that while cautious of the proposed reforms, the rice industry is resilient and will continue to navigate changes and challenges. 

“We look forward to working through the proposed legislation with the department, and we welcome the proposed extension of the current vesting arrangements until 2029," said Mr Herrmann.

“The Australian rice industry has weathered many challenges ranging from water reform, droughts, floods, the vagaries of international markets and government policies, and have continued to adapt over the last 100 years.

“The industry will again demonstrate its resilience by adapting to the proposed “targeted reforms” to the vesting arrangements announced by the Minister yesterday.

“The proposed reforms, while not in keeping with the views of the majority of ricegrowers, may provide some certainty following numerous reviews. It may create new opportunities for growers in the NSW Northern Rivers region.

“The future of rice growing in Australia remains positive given the focus of RD&E on water use efficiency, grain quality and the industry’s commitment to sustainability throughout the value chain."

For media enquiries contact:
Pip Connolly | Communications Manager
0488 071 165 pconnolly@rga.org.au