In the latest GVP figures we’ve seen a 43% increase in cropping compared to last year, driven by stronger production and higher cotton, canola and wheat prices. Our livestock sector is also up thanks to higher lamb, beef and wool prices.
Although we have seen the water receding in some areas, the NSW Government is continuing to stand with those impacted by the recent devastating flooding. Our Primary Producer grants, along with the $100 million Critical Producer Grant Program has been providing primary producers with support to restore their systems and rebuild essential infrastructure to a standard that will better withstand future disasters.
We have also made the largest investment into biosecurity on record. That’s $229 million to prepare for and prevent exotic pest and disease outbreaks in our State. This includes fast tracking world first mRNA vaccines for Foot and Mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease to protect Australia’s $28.7 billion livestock industry.
NSW will also have access to more local seafood, with a $5.7 million upgrade to the Port Stephens Fisheries Institute as part of our $100 million research infrastructure package to support our world-class food and fibre. And our recreational fishers won’t miss out, with 40 new projects to receive funding from the Recreational Fishing Trust to improve the health and vitality of our waterways.
We are also looking to a greener future, contributing $125 million to the Primary Industries Productivity and Abatement Program which will provide advice on how to maximise carbon business opportunities, direct funding to projects which reduce emissions and measure environmental performance.
I am pleased to say that with all that we are doing, the NSW primary industries sector is on track to reach a GVP of $30 billion by 2030.