Local Libs introducing bill to support grape growers...Unlock the cash

TWO senior Riverland politicians say utilisation of a support fund containing more than $28m is necessary to help the region’s wine industry overcome current major systemic challenges.

The SA Liberal Party on Monday announced it would table a bill aiming to give growers access to the Rural Industry Adjustment and Development Fund.
Riverland-based MLC, and opposition spokesperson for primary industries, Nicola Centofanti said the bill addressed reasons why the funds were yet to be made available.

“For months I’ve been calling on the government to look at using this fund to provide concessional finance to growers who have a viable plan to transition or diversify,” Dr Centofanti said. 

“The government’s excuse has been that the legislation requires interest rates to move towards commercial rates, so if that’s the roadblock, we’re removing it. 

“Under our bill, concessional loans will still be reviewed at least every three years, but the minister will have the flexibility to continue a concessional rate where the circumstances warrant it. 

“This is a hand up, not a handout. It’s about backing viable growers who have a credible pathway forward.” 

According to the Auditor-General, approximately $28.4m is sitting in the fund, which has reportedly gone unused for a decade. 

Chaffey MP Tim Whetstone said the funding could provide important support for Riverland primary producers seeking to diversify.

“The Riverland was built on the hard work of River Murray irrigators, and we need those grower families to be a part of the region’s future,” Mr Whetstone said.

“An abandoned vineyard is land that could be made productive again, but it takes a lot of money they don’t have to make that happen.

“Making this fund available to wine grape growers for concessional loans would give them the capacity to structurally adjust.”

State Liberal leader Ashton Hurn said “it makes no sense to leave millions sitting on the sidelines when many growers are battling”.

“These growers aren’t asking for a blank cheque - it’s about lending a hand so they can try and keep their land productive,” Ms Hurn said.