The NSW Government has appointed Alison Stone as the state’s first statutory Agriculture Commissioner to boost agricultural representation, supporting farmers and fulfilling an election promise.
PHOTO: Newly appointed Agriculture Commissioner Alison Stone CREDIT: Department of Primary Industries (DPI).
The Minns Labor Government, as part of its commitment during the state election, has established this role to provide independent advice and conduct reviews on pressing agricultural matters that impact agricultural practices right around the state, including here in the Snowy Mountains.
Commissioner Stone’s responsibilities include tackling issues such as productivity, land use conflicts, and food security.
Commissioner Stone’s role also includes providing input on renewable energy infrastructure impacts on landholders and promoting collaboration across various government levels.
With over 40 years in primary industries, Alison Stone will guide the NSW Government with her 25 years experience as a farmer, roles in policy areas such as land management, forestry, and disaster resilience.
Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, hailed Ms Stone’s appointment, stating, “The Minns Government has delivered another key election commitment by ensuring farmers and the agricultural sector has a dedicated and independent Agriculture Commissioner to advise me and the Government on best options for matters such as land planning in regional NSW.”
Ms Stone is set to serve an initial three-year term, during which she will assist in developing a system for mapping agricultural lands across NSW and progress a pilot Farm Practices Panel to address land use conflicts.
Ms Stone said “Agriculture is the backbone of our state.”
“My role is to collaborate with government, landowners and industry leaders to drive tangible, on-the-ground outcomes and practices to ensure NSW has a strong and prosperous agriculture sector.”
“NSW’s primary industries sector is one of the most diverse in the country, with a wide range of agricultural commodities and farming systems. While this presents challenges, it also creates valuable opportunities for growth and innovation.”
“One of my key priorities is helping government to protect and support our agricultural land, ensuring productivity remains on the government’s agenda alongside its priorities for renewable energy and housing.”
“I am honoured to be endorsed by the NSW Government for the first statutory Agriculture Commissioner and to work alongside Minister Moriarty and the farming sector to build a more resilient and prosperous future.”
The establishment of this commissioner role is part of broader efforts by the Minns Government, including appointing the state’s first Independent Biosecurity Commissioner and creating a $400 million Regional Development Trust Fund.