That is the response from NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton to a possible lifeline being offered to support SunRice as it navigates a period of low supply forcing job cuts.
Mrs Dalton said the potential $15 million package - offered by Federal Labor Government but announced publicly by One Nation’s Federal Member for Farrer David Farley on the ABC program Insiders at the weekend - is just a band aid fix to a situation that requires a rethink on government policy to have any meaningful impact.
And she said the fact the money is to be directed to a Leeton facility means there would be “nothing for Deni”, despite our community being more heavily impacted by the recent job cuts.
As a result of restricted supply of rice, SunRice has reduced shifts and slashed 78 jobs across the Leeton and Deniliquin mills. Of those, 68 were based at Deniliquin.
The reduction in rice paddy has been attributed to government water policy, which sees environmental needs prioritised over food and fibre production.
Mrs Dalton said while any investment in our communities is welcome, she said the fix food producers and their communities need is more water.
“Just give us the water,” Mrs Dalton said.
“If government gave back the water that was taken as a voluntary contribution - and was never intended to be an ongoing contribution - we could produce more food.
“So we need that water back now, because alot of people are very annoyed about what’s been going on.”
SunRice has confirmed it has had discussions with the Commonwealth Government about a funding package, but the Pastoral Times understands the money is not yet guaranteed.
As revealed by Mr Farley, the company has been invited by Water Minister Murray Watt to submit an application for funding to support the upgrade of the rice cakes manufacturing facility in Leeton.
“SunRice welcomes the constructive engagement we have had with the Federal Government regarding the challenges facing the Riverina rice industry and regional communities,” a SunRice Group spokesperson said.
“Discussions are ongoing, and it would be inappropriate to comment on those discussions in detail.
“To truly ensure a viable Australian rice industry, we need a multi-faceted plan that supports more balanced water allocations and value-added manufacturing to help promote skilled regional jobs.
“We have been highlighting the need for water policy reform that balances socio-economic and environmental outcomes, and greater regional manufacturing support in the Riverina, for several years.
“We welcome the short-term assistance and are encouraged to see the government considering action on part of the solution.
“We remain hopeful that further measures can be progressed to support a viable level of rice production in the upcoming season and the long-term viability of the Australian rice industry.”
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