On The Land
22 October, 2024
Sugar too big to ignore this state election
LEADERS of Queensland’s peak sugar industry bodies – Canegrowers and the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) – have come together to discuss the industry’s future and compare their policy positions ahead of the upcoming state election.
Representing both growers and millers, the organisations had a clear message for politicians hoping to lead the State after Saturday’s election – the sugar industry, which employs over 20,000 Queenslanders and contributes $4.4 billion to the economy, demands urgent government action.
“Sugar is the economic lifeblood of regional communities, from north of Cairns down to the Queensland border and beyond,” ASMC CEO Ash Salardini said.
“While politicians talk about a future manufacturing base, sugar is already here – manufacturing essential products right now.”
Canegrowers, which represents 70% of Queensland’s sugarcane growers, outlined its election priorities, including reduced electricity and water costs, less red tape and regulation, and the development of bioenergy, including biofuels, through the existing sugar supply chain.
“Our industry is essential to regional Queensland, but for growers to remain competitive and seize future opportunities, we need policies that deliver real outcomes,” Canegrowers CEO Dan Galligan said.
“Affordable electricity and water are critical. But we also need stronger research and development, smarter and more collaborative environmental programs, and biofuels policies that will provide new opportunities for the sugar industry.”
Both organisations emphasised the critical link between the success of mills and growers, with the recent closure of the Mossman Mill providing a stark reminder of the risks involved.
“We need a viable, dependable sugar milling sector,” Mr Galligan said.
“We need to learn the tough lessons from the Mossman Mill closure.”
The peak bodies are calling on the Queensland Government to invest in our people and our essential infrastructure, beginning with the cane rail network and workforce development.
“Canegrowers supports the ASMC’s call for investment in our cane rail network and ensuring the sugar supply chain has the skills and workforce necessary for the future,” Mr Galligan added.
The ASMC echoed the importance of a reliable cane-growing sector.
“Without a reliable supply of cane, we have our backs to the wall,” Mr Salardini said.
“That’s why we fully support Canegrowers’ call for affordable, reliable electricity and water, which are fundamental to Queensland’s cane-growing future.”
While acknowledging they may have their differences, both organisations have committed to building a stronger, collaborative future for the whole industry.
“The opportunities and challenges we face go well beyond any election cycle,” said Mr Salardini.
“That’s why we’re showing the incoming Queensland Government that we mean business and that the sugar industry is ready to lead.”
While collaboration is essential, both organisations will continue to fight for their members’ interests, Mr Galligan said.
“Make no mistake – millers and growers won’t always see eye to eye. But today, we are focusing on common ground. We are telling the Queensland Government that the sugar industry stands united and determined to thrive,” he said.
