Tuesday, 12 May 2026

 Michaela SETTLE (Eureka – Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Agriculture) (14:24): I rise to update the house on how the Allan Labor government continues to support Victorian families and our regional communities. I know what farming demands of people. I know what the late nights in the paddock look like. I know what it is to look up at the sky and pray that it is going to rain, because I have lived that connection, I have lived on the land, and I want farmers across Victoria to know this: that I will listen first, I will act practically and I will always make sure that their voice is heard in this government.

I know that our farmers are under real pressure right now from prolonged drought, rising costs and now Donald Trump’s economic war pushing up fuel prices at the worst possible time. When farmers cannot be certain fuel will be there, they cannot plan, and when they cannot plan, families across the state feel it at the checkout, on the shelf and on the table, and that is why this government, our government, has secured 10 million litres of diesel – a strategic fuel reserve solely for Victoria’s agricultural sector. Victorian farmers produce more than $22 billion in agricultural output. They are the backbone of our food supply, and they deserve a government that has their back when the world gets tough. This reserve means that farmers can plan their winter season with confidence. It protects food security. It keeps grocery prices down.

Victoria joins Western Australia and South Australia as the only states in the country with a confirmed fuel reserve. Backing farmers means backing regional communities, workers, small businesses and their families. Those opposite claim to represent regional Victoria, but look at their record: closed schools, closed hospitals – (Time expired)

The SPEAKER: I remind ministers who are on their feet for ministers statements to keep an eye on the clock.