Over the past two years we have developed a suite of policies designed to drive farming forward, to build regional communities, to attract investment and to create jobs.

By any measure our primary industries sector has had a year to remember in 2024–25, with a record-breaking farm gate value of $25.5 billion—surpassing the previous high set in 2021–22 by $2.4 billion.

NSW’s contribution to national output also rose, reflecting the sector’s strength and the remarkable innovation of those who work on the land, in our fisheries and forests. It is especially encouraging to see several individual industries reaching new heights. Record winter crop and chickpea yields, red meat, horticulture and poultry have all achieved milestone production or valuations.

While we should celebrate these achievements, it is important we remain mindful of the challenges faced by some regions and producers, including biosecurity threats and climate variability.

The NSW Government is committed to supporting the primary industries sector through targeted investment, including some $100 million in new biosecurity funding over the past year, bringing the State’s biosecurity budget to more than $1 billion.

We also invested $41 million to modernise our research capabilities and upgrade facilities, ensuring producers have the tools and knowledge to adapt and thrive. A further $43 million in joint funding with the Australian Government is being delivered to build drought preparedness and climate adaptation.

The NSW Government has also committed to working with the aquaculture industry to grow the value of the industry through innovative research, continual investment in breeding programs and a commitment to water quality improvements.

I am inspired by the resilience and ingenuity of our primary industries and the people who work in them. A huge congratulations to the men and women from regional NSW who every day go to work on the land and in our waterways to build a better and stronger NSW.