A new ministerial advisory council has been appointed by the Andrews Labor Government to help the Victorian agriculture sector prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change.

Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes today met the nine new council members, with a broad cross-section of experience across farm types, regions and climate policy expertise, each with their own unique skills, knowledge and networks.

The Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council (VACCC) will provide independent and strategic advice to the Minister about the challenges and opportunities facing the Victorian agriculture sector from an increasingly variable climate.

The VACCC will help government to work with industry to deliver strong, lasting and collaborative action on climate change for agriculture.

CEO of the Rural Bank Alexandra Gartmann will steer the VACCC as Chair. Ms Gartmann is an experienced leader of rural, agriculture and community development focused organisations. She is joined by beef and wool farmer and carbon-neutral farming pioneer Mark Wootton as Deputy Chair.

The VACCC is part of the Labor Government’s commitment to delivering strong and meaningful action on climate change in the agriculture sector. This includes working with industry to support action that is already being taken to manage climate change risks, build business resilience and improve productivity.

For more information about the Council and the full list of members, visit the Agriculture Victoria website.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture Jaclyn Symes

“I’m excited to be appointing our first Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council. Our farmers are already experiencing the effects of climate change and we need to work together to address the risk it poses.”

“The new Council members bring with them a wealth of relevant experience and knowledge and will provide practical advice on how we can support our agricultural sector to not only adapt but thrive for years to come.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“This council will play a crucial role in changing the way the agriculture sector responds to climate change. I’m looking forward to seeing the tangible outcomes as they work to drive down emissions.”

Quote attributable to Victorian Agriculture and Climate Change Council Chair Alexandra Gartmann

“I’m honoured to take up this appointment. Our agricultural sector is extremely resilient, and I look forward to working with the Council to advise on how we can further strengthen our unique and valuable industry while addressing the challenges of climate change.”