THE national peak plant science industry organisation, Plant Science Industry, has welcomed the appointment of the Hon Murray Watt as the new Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry minister.

CropLife Australia also welcomed the Hon Ed Husic as Industry and Science minister, and the Hon Tanya Plibersek as Environment and Water minister; portfolios that are important to the agricultural and science sectors.

CropLife Australia’s chief executive, Matthew Cossey, congratulated Senator Watt on his appointment to the important role as Agriculture minister.

“Senator Watt has shown a strong interest in Australia’s agricultural sector and previously served as a member of the Senate Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Committee,” he said.

“The CropLife team looks forward to working with the new minister to ensure Australia’s agriculture industry remains a world-leader and continues to grow to reach the target of being a $100 billion industry by 2030.

“A passionate and committed minister is needed to give the Australian farming sector the support it needs to tackle the major challenges ahead.

“Input industries like the plant science industry play a pivotal role in helping farmers address the challenges of climate change, food and nutritional security and affordability through important innovations that will enable a more sustainable and productive farming sector.

“CropLife thanks Julie Collins for her time as Shadow Agriculture minister and congratulates her on the appointment as minister for Housing, Homelessness and Small Business.

“We also thank David Littleproud for his work as the minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia and wish him well in his role as the new Leader of the Nationals.”