The Nationals WA: Jarvis Jets Overseas While WA Fishers and Farmers Are Left Waiting

The Opposition has slammed the Cook Labor Government for leaving Western Australia's fishing industry and sheep farmers in limbo, while WA Labor Ministers are busy gallivanting around overseas on trade junkets.

This week, the Cook Labor Government has chosen to prioritise an 'overseas trade mission to the Gulf', while ignoring serious and unresolved issues facing local primary producers.

Shadow Minister for Fisheries, Kirrilee Warr MLA, said WA's fishing industry is being treated as an afterthought.

"WA fishers are facing closures, regulatory uncertainty and a complete lack of direction from this Government," Ms Warr said.

"Instead of dealing with the fallout from fishing closures and livelihoods being put at risk here at home, the Minister is overseas chasing photo opportunities.

"At a time when fishers are desperate for certainty and leadership, Labor has simply walked away from the sector."

Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food, Lachlan Hunter MP, said sheep producers are still waiting for the Government to deliver on funding promises made months ago.

"Back in August, the Cook Labor Government announced the Sheep Industry Supply Chain Capacity Program and told WA farmers help was on the way," Mr Hunter said.

"Six months on, producers are still waiting for grant outcomes, still waiting for certainty, and still waiting for the Government to deliver."

"WA sheep farmers were asked to invest, adapt and transition. Many stepped up in good faith, but Labor has failed to follow through."

Both Shadow Ministers said export missions mean little when industries at home are being ignored.

"You cannot talk about growing exports overseas while leaving WA's fishing and agricultural industries in limbo," Ms Warr said.

"Strong industries start with strong leadership at home," Mr Hunter added.

"WA Labor's priorities are clear: overseas trips and press releases first, local fishers and farmers last."