Member for Mount Isa Rob Katter has called on the Government to look beyond the balance sheet when undertaking the proposed inquiry into manufacturing and agriculture.
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Mr Katter warns that if Queensland is to grow as a whole, the announced inquiry by the Queensland Productivity Commission must have a wider scope.
"Productivity is only the tip of the iceberg, we need our producers and manufacturers to also be profitable so they can put funds back into the communities," Mr Katter said in response.
"Productivity should not be the sole focus of an inquiry into these industries.
"The sustainability of the people and communities that are dependent on these industries must also be discussed."
The Northern member said many producers are already extremely productive, it is the return on the product that is making the sector nonviable.
"Until we realise the rest of the world has subsidies and protections that we do not, we are not going to be competitive on the international stage," Mr Katter said.
"Agricultural subsidies afforded to our farmers pale in comparison of those we are competing against in our region," he said.
Mr Katter looks forward to speaking with the Treasurer about the inquiry in the coming weeks.
State treasurer Curtis Pitt said the inquiry will give Central Queensland’s agricultural sector a say on the potential for expanding the state’s food production and processing sector while creating new jobs.
“The inquiry will look at ways to build on Queensland’s traditional manufacturing base, including our agricultural sector.
“The inquiry is expected to be completed by August next year.
“It will focus on opportunities to maximise advantages, address weaknesses and take advantage of emerging domestic and international opportunities, including a focus on employment and exports."
He said the government was focusing on creating jobs for traditional industry sectors and not just for those created from the digital age.