APY LANDS, FOOD SECURITY

In reply to the Hon. T.J. STEPHENS (30 November 2011) (First Session).

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion, Minister for Social Housing, Minister for Disabilities, Minister for Youth, Minister for Volunteers): The Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation is advised:

1. Access to, and consumption of, nutritious food on the APY lands is a very complex issue. There is no evidence to support the view that a food transport subsidy of $300,000 provided by the government would be a complete response to this very complex issue. The government has committed to the APY Lands Food Security Strategy to meet the challenge of improving food security on the APY Lands.

2. The APY Lands Food Security Strategy will consider store pricing and food supply chain issues to investigate the most appropriate and effective mechanisms to promote a sustainable food supply for Anangu. The effect of food, freight and other subsidies will be considered.