FCA CEO Fiona Davis – permanent funding needed.

FARMERS for Climate Action has welcomed the Federal Government’s $27.2 million investment in ‘carbon + biodiversity’ extension officers in natural resource management regions, but called for permanent funding.

FCA said the extension officers will help farmers take part in carbon and biodiversity markets.

“Farmers for Climate Action has been calling for this kind of practical, on-ground assistance to grow the carbon market,” FCA chief executive officer Fiona Davis said.

“Extension officers are a great way to assist farmers step-by-step through setting up a carbon and biodiversity project.

“A healthy carbon market which has integrity means more money in farmers’ pockets, including during times of drought,” she said.

“Stable income during drought is vital for farmers.

“This investment is a good step towards that,” Dr Davis said.

“Farmers for Climate Action is calling for the Farm Carbon + Biodiversity Pilot and the Enhancing Remnant Vegetation Pilot to be rolled out nationally with permanent ongoing funding to reward farmers for the good work they’re doing and provide sustainable, drought-resistant income.”

“As our recent ‘Fork in the Road’ report showed, producing food and getting it to shops and onto dining tables is getting harder because climate change is reducing rainfall, bringing more fires and floods, and driving up the cost of insurance and fertiliser.

“This funding is a positive step,” she said.

“Farmers continue to call for deep emissions reductions this decade, including in the transport and energy sectors, to protect our farmers and our food supply chains.

“Whilst farmers welcome the benefits that carbon sequestration provides, there is no substitute for emissions reduction.”