Put farmer protections above politics

Minister for Agriculture, Senator Bridget McKenzie today called on the Australian Parliament to support farmers and make a stand against activists who invade farms, damage property and steal animals.

 

“The people who produce the food that feeds us have a right to feel safe in their businesses and homes without the threat of activists’ invasions,” Minister McKenzie said.

 

“The sophisticated and coordinated attacks on farming operations need to stop.

 

“Anthony Albanese has been on a ‘listening tour’, but must not have paid attention in rural and regional Australia where this is a serious issue for farmers and farm workers.

 

“Farmers have contacted me questioning their place in the industry, and it is too late for others who have left altogether.

 

“Whose side are Labor on, the farmers who produce our food or the activist votes from the Greens?

 

“Richard Di Natale seemed more focused on taking pride in his parties’ ‘strong and proud tradition of civil disobedience’.

 

“Labor should take a stand and publicly support greater protections for our farmers from keyboard warriors who incite teams of animal activists to trespass, thieve and damage property.

 

“No one should be subjected to this sort of behaviour in their business or home—it risks the safety of farmers, animal welfare and biosecurity.

 

“Australian farmers are currently vulnerable, the Australian Parliament should unite and show how much they are valued.

 

“We can’t lose more hard-working farmers, fishers and foresters from the industry.

 

“When you trespass and steal you’re not a protestor, you’re a criminal and deserve to be punished with the full force of the law.”