Our policies come from two places: first, they are based upon traditional Australian values of fairness, equality, and mateship – which are reflected in our ‘We Believe’ statement; and second, from motions presented and ratified by grassroots members at our Annual General Conference
For over 100 years the NSW Nationals have fought for the regions
Through times of war and peace, prosperity and hardship, we have stood shoulder to shoulder with the people who call country and coastal Australia home. We stand for all regional communities – mums and dads, families, seniors, small business operators, sea-changers and tree-changers, retirees, students, apprentices and anyone in between
We’re united by a love for the real Australia and a commitment to make it better
BUILDING A BETTER REGIONAL NSW
The NSW Nationals dedicate their political purpose to driving a vision of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous New South Wales. At the forefront of this agenda is the management of vital policy areas such as regional infrastructure, lands and water, regional communication, and regional development. A philosophy guided by the principles that enable these outcomes is what drives the NSW Nationals to assist in creating a dynamic, stable, secure and viable regional, rural, and remote New South Wales.
A STRONGER ECONOMY FOR A STRONGER FUTURE
New South Wales is, economically, the strongest state in Australia. The NSW Nationals want to keep it that way. As part of the NSW Nationals platform for a stronger economic future, we recognise that the money government spends belongs to the people, and as such, will always spend it in the people’s best interest. We believe that giving people better opportunities to gain individual economic freedom will ensure this future.
STRENGTHENING OUR PRIMARY INDUSTRIES
Farming is in our DNA, and we know agriculture is the engine of regional economies. We will always speak up for producers; we will always defend producers; and we will always ensure that government acts in the best interest of producers. A stronger primary industries sector is critical for stronger regional, rural, and remote communities and is essential for food security. We will always work to provide the programs to equip our primary industries to continue to boost their productivity and profitability, while ensuring we sustainably manage our natural resources for generations to come.
INVESTING IN BETTER EDUCATION
The impact of education extends far beyond the classroom. Over time it shapes the values and character of our communities. It can empower individuals with the skills and knowledge to make informed decisions, pursue meaningful careers and better engage in their communities. The NSW Nationals are devoted to closing the gap between regional and metropolitan education outcomes, creating a regional New South Wales that thrives from a robust education system enabling lifelong learning.
RECONCILIATION FOR FIRST AUSTRALIANS
The NSW Nationals acknowledge Aboriginal Australians as the Traditional Owners of the lands on which Australians live and work and pay respects to their Elders past and present. We recognise the unique cultural and spiritual relationship, and celebrate the contributions of Aboriginal peoples, to the state of New South Wales.
ENSURING A HEALTHIER FUTURE
The NSW Nationals believe in access to healthcare as an inalienable right of all people living in New South Wales. We strive towards creating a system that delivers the highest possible care and diversity of services, while remaining accessible and affordable for regional and remote Australians.
CREATING A SAFER COMMUNITY
Communities are affected by the decisions made in managing matters of law and order, and the NSW Nationals are resolute in making choices that put our communities first.
ENSURING A MORE EQUITABLE FUTURE
The NSW Nationals represent some of the most disadvantaged areas in New South Wales. The plight of our seniors, carers, those with a disability, Indigenous Australians and the underprivileged is a core concern.
A CLEANER FUTURE FOR ALL
Australia’s energy future is a critical policy area for New South Wales. The mining industry provides an economic bedrock for New South Wales, delivers thousands of jobs across the State, and provides a stable domestic energy supply. The NSW Nationals are dedicated to a diverse, economically profitable, and socially responsible energy future. We acknowledge that regional areas are the powerhouse of New South Wales, and the impact of changes on these communities can have far reaching consequences.
PROTECTING COMMUNITIES FROM NATURAL DISASTERS
The NSW Nationals are committed to pursuing practical disaster management that serves to mitigate the financial and emotional impacts disasters pose on regional Australians. The NSW Nationals aim to ensure that regional residents have the support of the government and supporting services and agencies, at every stage of management, from prevention and preparation to response and recovery. Moreover, the NSW Nationals strive to enhance the delivery of emergency services to regional residents.