Post COVID-19 ag sector booming

THE AGRICULTURAL sector is projected to have a record-breaking year, spelling out potential good fortune for the highlands area.
Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Agriculture Resources Economics and Sciences (ABARES) last week projects farmgate value for Australian agricultural production is estimated to be $65.9 billion – a welcomed figure for rural and regional areas as the country strives towards economic recovery.
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the figures were a testament to farmer’s grit and resilience.
“I’ve always said agriculture will lead Australia’s recovery out of COVID-19 and our farmers are on the frontline,” he said.
“They have responded big time and now we’re seeing the results, with a near record winter crop harvest, strong meat prices and higher farm incomes.”
Mr Littleproud said the report gave several strong indicators that 2020-21 would be an “outstanding year for Australian agriculture”.
“It’s a remarkable rebound from drought – in terms of the three years of consecutive decline and the sheer scale of the turnaround.”