Sydney, Australia: Farmers meeting in Sydney for the NSW Farmers’ Association’s 2010 Annual Conference: Value of Agriculture have vowed to continue their fight for recognition of their property rights.

NSW Farmers’ Association President Charles Armstrong says the last 6 months have seen the Association working at all levels for just – terms compensation for farmers when Government compulsorily acquires their land.

“Conference has today reiterated that concern about this issue remains at the forefront of the issues that the Association considers most important. The Association takes this very seriously and our campaign is only gathering speed as we head towards Federal and State elections,” Mr Armstrong said.

“We welcome NSW Opposition Leader Barry O’Farrell’s commitment this week to assist in this matter, and it is this kind of commitment we are seeking from State and Federal politicians of all political parties,” he said.

NSW Farmers’ Association is calling for a balanced, rational and equitable approach to policy affecting land and natural resources.

“This isn’t a complex issue – all we are asking is recognition of the impacts these laws have on farmers, and proper just terms compensation when these impacts are negative to productivity.

“Millions of Australians have taken risks with their investments to build better enterprises. They’re mortgaged those investments to expand and be more productive,” he said.

“We will continue to fight for restoration of the ability of farmers to sustainably manage and develop their properties to ensure that farming continues to be a vital part of Australian society and our economy, being a supplier of food and key rural employer,” Mr Armstrong concluded.

Source: http://www.nswfarmers.org.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/65823/156.10nr.pdf