Deputy chair David Farley said the Speak Up executive believed it was important for voters to have a tool which provided a quick reference on this vital national issue.
Candidates in the seats of Farrer, Indi, Nicholls and Mallee were asked to provide details of their water policy, and these have been compiled and details placed on the Speak Up website at: www.speakup4water.com
“Speak Up will not be endorsing any candidate, however we believe everyone should have a clear understanding of the approach that each one will be taking to water policy,” Mr Farley said.
Each electorate table lists the candidates, whether they provided a detailed water policy, whether they oppose water buybacks and whether their position is supported by the Speak Up campaign.
When a detailed policy or response is provided there will be a link so it can be read in more detail.
“For the security of our nation we need a reset on water policy in the next government,” Mr Farley said.
“It would be fair to say that the majority of voters in southern NSW and northern Victoria just want good policy from candidates and their parties.”
He said the current approach to the implementation of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, in particular water buybacks, was threatening the nation’s food security, adversely impacting rural communities and increasing the cost of food for everyone at the local supermarket.
“To deliver sensible policy it is imperative that water buybacks stop and we complete the 2026 Basin Plan review, so there can be a clear pathway forward.
“Under the current approach we are destroying the nation’s food bowl and food security for minimal environmental gain.
“Unfortunately, we do not presently have political leadership that is strong enough to call out the environmental lobby groups.
“Policy is being dominated by city-based politicians with little or no understanding of water management intricacies, nor the importance of water for growing food and therefore providing our nation with food security.”
Mr Farley encouraged voters to visit the Speak Up campaign website before they cast a ballot.
“Be informed. It is important as constituents in this great nation that we show the courage to develop policy and make decisions that are in the nation’s best interest, rather than the best interest of someone’s political agenda.
“Our organisation is not supporting any particular candidate or political party, but we do want them to be honest about their water and food security intentions if elected.
“What we are prepared to do is encourage everyone in our local electorates to vote for candidates who are prepared to clearly state their position on water policy, especially opposing water buybacks.”
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