A taskforce has been established to help primary producers across western NSW struggling with the challenges and impacts of COVID-19.
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In March, the NSW Department of Primary Industries established the COVID-19 Primary Industries Liaison Team with the aim of helping producers navigate the challenges the pandemic has had on their businesses and industries.
"Due to ever-changing information and challenges COVID-19 presented it was critical to ensure the sector had access to accurate and timely information," NSW DPI COVID-19 Primary Industries Liaison leader, Ian Sanders said.
From March, 17 to June, 2, the team has responded to a total of 619 enquiries from across NSW.
The team has been able to provide clarity to primary producers on guidelines they need to follow to keep their industries operating during the COVID-19 outbreak," Mr Sanders said.
"The aim is to support primary producers with access to a one-stop-shop where they can get a timely response to their questions."
The specialist team have been providing producers with information and support on a range of issues, including:
- Providing a central point for up-to-date COVID-19 information affecting NSW primary industries.
- Working closely with industry to gain information about issues and discuss solutions.
- Assisting industry with pathways to appropriate government services.
- Distributing information to the sector.
- Working across the food supply chain to help ensure continuity.
Some of the most common questions, NSW producers have sought clarity on include how do agricultural businesses manage cross-border operations and can people go fishing and are they able to travel to fish.
Other COVID-19 issues the NSW DPI has dealt with include questions about seasonal workforces, guidance on processing facilities to maintain business and a safe workforce and assistance with international trade out of Australia and into other markets.
More questions include personal protection equipment, assistance on the application of public health orders affecting primary industries, including the continuation of auctions and commercial fishing and the movement of companion animals.
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Taylor Jurd
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
Hi, my name is Taylor Jurd. I am a journalist with Australian Community Media, I write for the Western Magazine and Wellington Times.
