THE Water Amendment (Restoring Our Rivers) Bill 2023 proposed by the Federal Government, which could potentially result in the buyback of 450GL of water from local irrigators, has raised significant concerns for the Greater Shepparton region and our horticulture industry.
Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, has expressed deep concerns about the potential impact of this bill on the local community and economy.
Greater Shepparton is known as the ‘food bowl of Australia’, with local farmers relying heavily on irrigation water to maintain the quality and quantity of their produce, which is not only consumed domestically but also exported worldwide.
The proposed legislation, which seeks to make changes to the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, could have severe consequences for our region.
Cr Sali emphasised how water is the lifeblood of the community and the backbone of the local economy, supporting both domestic consumption and exports. If the government proceeds with taking an additional 450GL of water from irrigators, it could have devastating effects on jobs and livelihoods in rural communities. This could ultimately lead to a rise in the prices of fruit and vegetables, putting additional financial strain on residents already facing a cost-of-living crisis.
Cr Sali raises the concern that if fresh produce becomes less affordable due to these changes, it may impact the health and well-being of residents who rely on these essential food items for their diets.
“What happens when people cannot afford the food in their supermarket trolley each week? Will they be forced to take out the fruit and vegetables in their trolley and risk the impact this may have on their health and wellbeing?” asked Cr Sali.
“Fresh fruit and vegetables have an important role to play in our health and if increased prices make these commodities unaffordable, both young and old will be affected.”
Cr Sali said the region would continue to fight for a better outcome and ensure our community is protected from further social and economic harm and uncertainty.
“Local food manufacturing must be protected, less water means less food produced, leading to higher costs,” he said.
“Our community deserves better and our nation expects premium fruit and vegetables to continue to be grown in this region.”
