The NSW Farmers’ Association says farmers from around the State can add their voice to the thousands that protested against the erosion of property rights in Canberra yesterday, by signing the Association’s petition.
Over 4000 farmers gathered in Canberra at the rally to hear from speakers including Tony Abbot, Peter Spencer, Barnaby Joyce and NSW Farmers’ Association President Charles Armstrong, who says the petition will carry the rally’s message further.
“This very successful rally represents another important step in the Association’s ongoing campaign against the erosion of property rights. We will progress the campaign with this petition amongst other initiatives,” Mr Armstrong said.
“While thousands made it to Canberra, others who were unable to attend now have a great chance to make your voice heard,” he said.
“Essentially our message is that farmers must be compensated for the provision of biodiversity services and carbon services as well as the erosion of farmer’s property rights as a result of Government regulation and legislation,” he said.
“The petition firstly asks the House of Representatives to restore farmers’ rights to sustainably manage and develop their properties.
“Secondly, ensure that there is fair and reasonable rent for provision of environmental services, paying farmers fair value for carbon embodied in native vegetation and providing just terms compensation when Governments make decisions that devalue property.
“If this was to be held invalid the Federal Government should hold a referendum to allow the citizens of Australia to change the Constitution to ensure “just terms” compensation.
“We have shown how seriously concerned many of the State’s farmers are about these issues. With the petition we want to show that this concern stretches even further than many could imagine,” Mr Armstrong concluded.
The Petition is available at www.nswfarmers.org.au
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