Thursday, 2 April 2026

 Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:31): (1306) My question is for the minister representing the Minister for Agriculture. Minister, today the government announced $2.7 million in food relief funding for organisations such as food banks, SecondBite, regional food shares and OzHarvest. When I have spoken to these organisations, as well as the Salvos and St Vincent de Paul, they all identified their biggest challenge as securing a consistent supply of red iron-rich protein – that is, red meat. Programs like Hunters for the Hungry offer a practical solution, one that has previously been supported by this Parliament. In New Zealand similar initiatives deliver tons of red meat to food charities annually. My question is: Minister, what is preventing the government from supporting a trial of such a program here in Victoria?

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:32): I thank Mr Bourman for the question. Yes, there were an event and a media release that involved the Minister for Agriculture this morning in relation to this matter. The specific matter that he raised today in question time will be referred to the Minister for Agriculture.

 Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:32): I thank the minister for referring it on. Minister, Walhalla currently has a deer population estimated at six times the state average, causing significant environmental damage, including to heritage stone walls. With ideal conditions approaching, will the minister consider a trial program in Walhalla to harvest this resource for food relief, ensuring this valuable protein does not go to waste?

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:33): I thank Mr Bourman for his supplementary question. Like the substantive question, it will be referred to the Minister for Agriculture.