Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has welcomed the announcement that China will lift its ban on Australian beef exports.
“This is a positive step for Australian beef farmers and producers, with the suspension of five of the bans being lifted immediately,” said Mr Willcox.
“China has always been a valued trading partner for Australian agriculture which is a trade dependent sector, exporting more than 70% of what we produce.
“My concern now is the workforce shortages that our farmers are facing.”
With Australian farmers currently working at just 60 to 70 per cent capacity, Mr Willcox said the Ag Visa desperately needs to be reinstated.
“I welcome the discussion to reinstate the Ag Visa to allow foreign workers into Australia at the right quantities and in the right places, while still having a commonsense migration policy,” he said.
“Myself, along with my National Party colleagues, will always stand shoulder to shoulder with our Australian farmers and our beef industry.”