Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan website

 www.australia.gov.au/economicstimulus will keep Australians informed about the Australian economy and the Australian Government’s early and decisive action to cushion the nation from the worst of the global financial recession. The website will provide information and updates on the progress of the $42 billion Nation Building-Economic Stimulus Plan. 

PORTFOLIO NEWS

Tony Burke promotes Australian trade in the Middle East

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke has recently been in the Middle East promoting Australian agricultural trade in wheat, dairy, live animals and other exports. "The Middle East is a very important market for Australia’s agricultural trade, accounting for almost eight per cent of our total agricultural exports," Mr Burke said. Read transcripts of the minister's addresses during the visit online.

Government accepts advice on two drought regions of NSW

The Australian Government has accepted advice that Exceptional Circumstances (EC) declarations should be lifted in two areas of NSW. The EC declarations for Central North North-West Coonabarabran Revision and Central North North-West Northern Slopes Revision will lapse on 30 April 2009. The National Rural Advisory Council reassessed the regions this year and found seasonal conditions had generally improved in both areas, after rain boosted crop and pasture growth. Read the media release online.

PUBLICATIONS AND REPORTS

New brochures promote on-farm biosecurity

A series of brochures promoting on-farm biosecurity practices has just been released. Vital Information for Plant Producers and Vital Information for Travelling Farm Workers provide plant producers and itinerant workers with simple biosecurity tips to help stop the spread of agricultural pests, diseases and weeds between properties. Vital Information for Small Rural Landholders is an animal and plant biosecurity guide for people on small rural properties. For hard copies please email us your name and postal address or download copies online.