Mather demands interim farm aid as 2027 reservoir project looms

At Large Representative Stacy Mather has called on the government to deliver immediate relief to farmers and fishers, linking their prospects directly to the Territory's food security outlook.

Addressing the House of Assembly, Mather acknowledged that a reservoir slated for 2027 represents a significant long-term investment but cautioned that agricultural producers cannot sustain operations for another year without tangible support. He outlined three priorities: interim irrigation schemes, transparent grant disbursement timelines, and coordinated infrastructure development across relevant ministries.

"We need to make sure that when we talk about food security, we must meet our producers halfway, and right now, that includes interim irrigation plans, clear grants schedules, and collaborative infrastructure support," Mather said.

Mather pressed Minister Kye Rymer of Communications and Works to align his ministry's efforts with Agriculture, particularly regarding water infrastructure at Paraquita Bay where pipe installation and repairs are currently underway. He urged that these works benefit crop and livestock production.

He also endorsed accelerating the Food Security Bill through Parliament, echoing a recent position taken by Premier Natalio Wheatley.

In his 2027 Budget Address, Premier Wheatley committed to distributing grants to farmers and fishers by year-end 2026. A Supplemental Appropriation approved recently raised the total grant pool to $500,000, according to the Premier's statement.

Design work and tender processes have concluded for an Agricultural Complex, a farmers' reservoir and a fishing complex at Omar Hodge Fisherman's Wharf, the Premier reported, framing these developments as essential groundwork for long-term food security.