NSW Farmers welcomes Agriculture Commissioner

NSW Farmers welcomes the NSW Government’s appointment of Daryl Quinlivan as the Agriculture Commissioner.

CEO of NSW Farmers, Pete Arkle, has today congratulated Mr Quinlivan on his appointment.

“We’re looking forward to working with Daryl and are excited about the new role of Agriculture Commissioner,” Mr Arkle said.

The establishment of an Agriculture Commissioner is an advocacy win for NSW Farmers’ Association, who led the push for its creation.

“The Coalition committed to an Agriculture Commissioner as part of their 2019 election campaign and we thank the government for following through on this election commitment."

“Mr Quinlivan is a sound appointment. He will have a critical role within government to drive the growth of the agricultural industry, removing barriers and realising untapped potential."

Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall announced Mr Quinlivan’s appointment today at NSW Farmers’ Board Member and Executive Councillor Paul Shoker’s farm in Coffs Harbour, a highly productive horticultural region where the right to farm has been challenged over recent years with urban expansion and Local Council environmental zoning issues. 

The Australian agricultural sector has set a target to grow to become a $100 billion industry by 2030. This will require the NSW industry to grow to $30 billion in the next 10 years.

“The Commissioner will have a critical role in promoting this growth,” Mr Arkle said.

“A key component will be to advance an improved planning system, one that effectively recognises and protects agricultural production.

“NSW Farmers looks forward to working with the Government to ensure that the Commissioner has the appropriate statutory powers and resources to fulfill their role.

“We would like to see the Commissioner work across government agencies to ensure that the rights of farmers are upheld,” Mr Arkle concluded.

Date: Monday, 3 August 2020
Media Contact:  Michael Burt  | 0428 228 988 | [email protected]