SOUTH Australia’s food sector will be bolstered by a $4m funding boost if the State Opposition wins government in March.
Peak body Food SA will receive an additional $1.25m over the next three years on top of its $2.75m in government funding to drive programs on increasing food production.
Liberal candidate for Mount Gambier Craig Marsh said the commitment would enhance Food SA’s capacity to deliver core programs and continue the SA Food Industry Awards program.
“Our farmers in the South East are responsible for some of South Australia’s best produce, from our livestock and grain and through to our wine,” he said.
Food SA creates and delivers a suite of programs to help farmers, food processors and manufacturers grow and access markets in Australia and overseas.
“The demand for our premium produce is growing around the world and the Liberals have a plan to better sell our food and wine in lucrative overseas markets,” Mr Marsh said.
He said the region was positioned to grow and meet the estimated increase in food demand.
“We want to see our state in the future grow to meet the estimated world food demand will increase by 70pc, much of which will be driven by countries in Asia,” he said.
“By tapping into this huge overseas demand, it will help our farmers and food businesses in the South East grow and support more local jobs.”
The funding will also see the establishment of a liaison officer position working within Food SA, with the commitment building on the party’s pledge to establish new trade offices in China, Malaysia, Japan, the USA and Dubai.
