News about increased wheat return welcomed

Agriculture Minister Ernie Bridge has welcomed news of the increased estimated return for wheat farmers, announced by the Australian Wheat Board.

Mr Bridge said the State Government's decision to provide a minimum price support last year had been a key factor in encouraging Western Australian farmers to plant wheat during difficult economic times.

"Our aim was to instill confidence in the rural economy, and WA wheat farmers are now reaping the benefits of that decision," he said.

"The higher prices are good news for farmers, but also for the entire WA economy."

"The returns farmers can expect obviously influences their budget planning and also their ability to spend money in the community, which in turn affects small business and the economy generally."