Lower costs for agribusiness

• Inroads made on reducing red tape and regulatory burden for aerial spraying

• Easier for agribusinesses to optimise their potential and to reduce costs 

Western Australian farming businesses are set to benefit from streamlined regulations and administrative processes, saving time and money across the sector.

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Lewis said the Liberal National Government was continuing to improve government processes for agribusinesses including proposed changes to aerial spraying regulatory requirements.

"Simplifying aerial spraying licencing and compliance processes is one area where we will be able to make a difference by removing the administrative burden on aircraft pilots and spraying companies," Mr Lewis said.

"The proposal to change from a licencing system to one that recognises spraying certifications, and removing the need to lodge monthly spray records could save an estimated 31 hours per year for each pilot.  This change will also allow recognition of pilots of remotely piloted aircraft who wish to use their aircraft for aerial spraying.

"In addition, aerial spraying companies will no longer have to take out mandatory insurance. Together, these changes represent a saving of about $4,800 for each operator per year in compliance burden and fees."

A new pest and disease reporting system using the MyPestGuide app, developed by the Department of Agriculture and Food, is also delivering efficiencies to WA growers and the community - estimated to be a time saving of at least 4,900 hours a year. 

"The new app reduces the time spent reporting on pests and diseases, allows for faster infield diagnostics and improves the efficiency of pest and disease identification.  Since the app was first introduced, 12,000 reports have been made," Mr Lewis said.

The State Government has also delivered on its commitment to deregulate the potato industry in Western Australia, removing a 70-year restriction for growers, increasing competition and consumer choice.

Finance Minister Sean L'Estrange said these reforms highlighted the range of diverse benefits the Government was delivering to Western Australian businesses.

"By cutting red tape, we can reduce barriers to investment, drive economic growth and lift business confidence," Mr L'Estrange said.

Fact File

• Read the Government's Red Tape Reduction Report Card here

• Submit your ideas to reduce red tape and #shredthered here

• Click here to read the Government's Regulatory Reform Policy

• In 2014-15, WA agrifood exports were valued at $7.79 billion 

Agriculture and Food Minister's office - 6552 6400

Finance Minister's office - 6552 6900