!!!February 15, 2024
Locally owned and independent
The Northern Rivers Times
NEWS 11
Farmers can be part of the solution for housing crisis At today’s National Regional Housing Summit, the National Farmers’ Federation is calling on policymakers to shine a light on how farmers can be part of the solution to Australia’s deepening housing crisis. The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) today released regional figures showing the median house price has jumped 54.2% and the rental vacancy rate has dropped to 1.2%. NFF President David Jochinke said: “It’s no secret agriculture is struggling with workforce shortages, and one of the biggest barriers to getting employees on farm is a lack of regional housing. “What adds complexity to agriculture’s housing
requirements is not only do farmers want to attract permanent workers, but they also rely on a seasonal workforce for planting and harvest time.” Mr Jochinke said the RAI’s push to develop bespoke housing options was a step in the right direction. “Let’s get all ideas on the table so we find smart solutions and get the balance right between meeting housing demand and, to quote Darryl Kerrigan, maintain regional Australia’s charm.” The NFF wants to see a boost in the regional housing mix of on-farm accommodation and traditional housing. “Farmers can be part of the solution to the regional housing crisis.” Mr Jochinke said on-farm solutions
provided a double win by eliminating the need for seasonal workers to find accommodation in nearby towns and travelling long distances each day, while also freeing up housing in regional communities. “An accelerated depreciation or instant asset write-off scheme could incentivise farmers to invest in housing and accommodation. “As it stands, the Fringe Benefits Tax discourages farmers from providing housing and accommodation for employees.” Solutions also include reducing red tape through simplifying planning rules and making sure the Government’s $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund focuses on the regions.
Minister Speaks on Train Line Reinstatement By Samantha Elley The Minister for Regional Rail and Roads Jenny Aitchison addressed to parliament last Thursday in reply to the petition presented to the State Parliament asking for reinstatement of passenger services from Armidale to Wallangarra. The Minister referred to regional transport providing better outcomes for health, education, jobs and opportunity. The petition was presented to the lower house by Member for New England Adam Marshall acknowledging the hard work amassing 10,740 signatures by the Trains North group and President Mathew Tierney and also the predecessor group led by Rob Lenehan from Gyra. Jenny Aitchison mentioned previously operating a business in Walcha and the passenger train assisting tourist movements north of Tamworth. The government is able to assist with better connections for resources, markets, schools, hospitals and jobs. The Minister acknowledged Mathew, Allen and Colin from
The Minister for Regional Rail and Roads Jenny Aitchison
Ecotransit for coming to meet with me and be present in the Gallery here today. There needs to be a robust look at the project with a business case for consideration by the current Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Study. Adam Marshall presented a summary of the history of the Great Northern Railway mentioning support for the reinstatement by Tenterfield Shire Council. Typically freight would need to underpin the viability for the considerable expense with the desired result of a passenger train. The aging
and disabled population suits a passenger train rather than coaches and today is not the end of the debate rather the beginning. Jenny Aitchison and Adam Marshall followed up the debate personally meeting with Allen Crosthwaite, Mathew Tierney and Joy King outside the House for coming to Sydney. It appears a favourable business study involving benefits and costs would provide the desired outcome to the people of the New England with increased commerce, tourism, education and health benefits.
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