Ministerial Statement

Drought Round Table

The Hon. P.B. MALINAUSKAS (Croydon—Premier) (14:04): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. P.B. MALINAUSKAS: As every South Australian is now well aware, significant parts of our state are experiencing drought conditions, drought conditions that, for the last 30-month period, since February 2024, most of South Australia's agricultural districts are in severe or serious rainfall deficiencies, with many regions experiencing the lowest annual figures ever recorded. As a result, many agricultural districts are reporting significant impacts to primary production.

The current estimated grain production for 2024-25 has been revised to 5.2 million tonnes, which is over 40 per cent below the five-year average and the lowest total since 2008 (4.9 million tonnes). The estimated farm gate value of grain in 2024-25 is estimated to be $2.1 billion, which is down from $3.3 billion last year.

Livestock producers are also being significantly impacted by these drought conditions, with very poor pasture cover due to the rainfall deficit and the high volume and cost of supplementary feeding. Livestock conditions remain below average, with producers reducing stock numbers and reporting lower than normal breeding rates. Of course, the impacts are not just being felt by grain and livestock producers but across the board, including wine, fruit, dairy and other primary producers.

Just two weeks ago, I convened a special Emergency Management Council meeting which focused on what impacts these drought conditions were having on the agricultural sector and the implications around water security for the state more broadly. There can be no doubt that the drought is placing enormous pressure on our regional communities and primary producers. More needs to be done, and my government is committed to ensuring that our regional communities have the support they need.

Tomorrow, together with the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, I will host a round table with key stakeholders and farmers across the state. The round table will include key representatives from Primary Producers SA, Grain Producers SA, Livestock SA, SA Dairy Association, Horticulture Coalition of SA, SA Fresh Fruit Growers, Wine Grape Council of South Australia, Rural Business Support, as well as other grain and dairy farmers and lamb and beef cattle producers. The round table will focus on what more immediate relief measures the government can deliver, long-term resilience strategies and other collaborative solutions to support farmers, primary producers and our regions.

Drought is not just a rural issue; it affects all South Australians. The resilience of our regional communities is unwavering, but they should not face this challenge alone. My government stands with them and will continue to act decisively. This round table will be integral in building on our already announced $18 million drought package, which was announced late last year, and ensure that our regional communities are getting the support they need during this difficult time.