The National Water Agreement, Murray-Darling Basin Plan, workforce, connectivity, and energy were all on the agenda this week when Cotton Australia conducted a series of meetings in Canberra with politicians, their advisors, and senior members of the Public Service.

Cotton Australia CEO Adam Kay and General Manager Michael Murray used the first sitting week of the parliamentary year to discuss key issues facing the Australian cotton industry with decision-makers.

The meetings involved representatives from all major political parties.

“As always, the key discussion issue was water,” said CEO Adam Kay.

In a meeting with Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins, Cotton Australia acknowledged her work in raising the profile of agriculture in the draft National Water Agreement.

In discussions with Minister for Water Tanya Plibersek’s office, Cotton Australia reinforced its opposition to further water recovery, its support for investment in complementary measures, and its concerns about the potential for water recovery by stealth through the NSW Connectivity Review.

Meetings with National Party Leader David Littleproud and Water Spokesperson Senator Perin Davey also focused on the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and the National Water Agreement.

A meeting with the office of Minister for Trade Don Farrell gave Cotton Australia the opportunity to thank the Minister for his work on the Indian Free Trade Agreement and the ongoing efforts to increase the tariff-free allowance.

Assistant Agriculture Minister Anthony Chisholm was highly engaged in discussions on the work of the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), the opportunities traceability offers the industry, and workforce challenges.

A meeting with Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Murray Watt’s office provided an opportunity to discuss the Farm Apprenticeship Project, the importance of the Working Holiday Visa Program, farm safety, and opportunities associated with the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme.

Cotton Australia also met with local members from electorates where cotton is a major crop, including Colin Boyce (Flynn) and Garth Hamilton (Groom).

It was also an opportunity to meet with outgoing Member for Parkes Mark Coulton to thank him for his 18 years of service representing his electorate and his support for the industry.

Finally, a meeting with Murray-Darling Basin Authority CEO Andrew McConville rounded out the schedule, providing valuable insights into the work currently being undertaken to inform the Basin Plan Review, set to be completed in 2026.