Today, leaders of Queensland’s peak sugar industry bodies – CANEGROWERS and the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) – came 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 from 26 October – 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,” said Mr Ash Salardini, CEO of the ASMC.
“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,” said Mr Salardini.
“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.”
CANEGROWERS and the ASMC, as the leading voices of the industry, are sending a clear message: Queensland’s sugar industry is ready for action, and it expects the same from our state government.
View CANEGROWERS’ election priorities here
Download ASMC’s election priorities here
Media comment:
Dan Galligan | CANEGROWERS CEO | 0429 707 809
Ash Salardini | Australian Sugar Milling Council CEO | 0490 785 390
More information:
Wayne Griffin | CANEGROWERS Communications | 0418 871 881
Jim Crane | Australian Sugar Milling Council, Government and Industry Director | 0400991931
About CANEGROWERS:
CANEGROWERS is a not-for-profit peak industry body providing a professional and cohesive voice for growers across all of Queensland’s sugarcane growing regions. Through our 13 regional offices and state office in Brisbane we represent thousands of Queensland growers at the local, state, national and international levels. Our diversity is our strength, and we draw on this diversity as we set priorities to achieve our vision of a secure and profitable future.
About the AUSTRALIAN SUGAR MILLING COUNCIL::
The Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) is the peak industry body for the Australian sugar milling sector – contributing $4.4 billion annually to the Australian economy and supporting more than 20,000 jobs. The ASMC works with its members, industry stakeholders, other industry representatives and government to develop and promote policies that enhance the sustainability, viability and economic contribution of the sugar industry in Australia.