Shadow Minister for Water and Nationals Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said SunRice’s announcement that it’s scaling back production is deeply concerning for workers, families, and communities across the Riverina, particularly in Deniliquin, Leeton, and across AGS operations.
“My first thoughts are with the employees facing an uncertain consultation period, and with the families and local businesses who will also feel the impact of any potential job losses,” Ms Cooke said.
“The Riverina rice industry is part of the social and economic fabric of southern NSW, supporting growers, mill workers, transport operators, small businesses and families across generations.
“This is a stark reminder that water policy decisions do not stop at the farm gate. They flow through our mills, processors, main streets, schools, sporting clubs and regional economies.”
Ms Cooke said SunRice has made it clear that reduced Australian rice supply, recent dry conditions, and structural changes to water availability under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan have driven this decision.
“That should ring alarm bells in Sydney and Canberra,” she said.
“The NSW and Federal Governments must do more than acknowledge the impact of water recovery on Basin communities. They must urgently step up with practical support for affected workers, genuine investment in regional industry, and a clear plan to protect food and fibre production in the southern Basin.
“As Shadow Minister for Water, I will continue to stand with Basin communities and advocate for water policy that keeps regional towns, industries and jobs strong.”
