A Tale of Two Polls

First, Queenslanders headed to the polls and delivered a decisive victory for the Liberal National Party, ushering in David Crisafulli as Premier.

Then, before the dust had even settled on Queensland’s political upheaval, we were cast headlong into the dizzying world of US presidential politics, watching in awe as Donald Trump pulled off a stunning election victory. Both elections bring big implications for Queensland agriculture, including the sugarcane industry. 

Here at home, the election of Premier Crisafulli has sparked optimism in regional communities. Growing up on a sugarcane farm in Ingham, Premier Crisafulli has a genuine connection to the industry, giving him insight into the challenges and opportunities we face.

Already the new LNP Government has committed to creating a $30 million innovation fund, boosting biosecurity funding y $50 million, and another $12.5 million in targeted support for growers in Mossman. It’s a promising start, but there’s plenty of work to do.

Growers are still battling sky-high water and electricity costs that eat into their margins, while excessive regulation continues to hold the industry back. These aren’t new issues, but they remain at the forefront of discussions with the new government.

CANEGROWERS has made it clear that reducing red tape and addressing input costs are critical to ensuring long-term profitability and sustainability.

One area that’s got everyone talking is the potential for a sugarcane-based biofuels industry. If the state seizes this opportunity, it could transform Queensland into a leader in renewable energy. From sustainable aviation fuel to biodiesel, sugarcane could play a central role in a greener future while creating jobs and boosting regional economies. It’s a vision the new government seems keen to pursue, and there’s hope this partnership will deliver results.

Meanwhile, across the Pacific, the re-election of Donald Trump has sent shockwaves through global politics. For Australian agriculture, it raises pressing questions about trade.

Trump’s proposed tariffs on imported goods are a concern for many, and while sugar exports to the US are relatively small – about 90,000 tonnes annually – it remains a premium market for Queensland growers.

Historically, Australia has faced significant barriers in accessing the American market, with quotas tightly controlled and heavily lobbied by the powerful US sugar industry. Now, with Trump’s trade policies back in play, the road to better market access looks even tougher. But this isn’t a time to retreat.

CANEGROWERS will continue our advocacy efforts in Washington, aimed at protecting the interests of Australia’s sugarcane industry and pushing for greater market access. Trump’s election is a stark reminder that while global politics can feel distant, the ripple effects are often felt right here at home.

What ties these two elections together is the theme of change.

In Queensland, there’s a sense of fresh opportunity. Premier Crisafulli’s team has a chance to work collaboratively with growers to tackle longstanding issues and pave the way for a more sustainable, innovative future.

On the global stage, the challenges posed by Trump’s trade agenda will require the same adaptability and determination that have always been hallmarks of Queensland’s sugarcane sector.

The industry’s resilience is something to be proud of. It has survived droughts, floods, market disruptions, and industry upheaval. Now, with strong leadership at home and a clear determination to navigate international uncertainties, it’s poised to keep thriving. Whether it’s biofuels innovation or securing new trade deals, the opportunities are there for the taking.

It’s often said that with every challenge comes opportunity, and that feels especially true right now. From Queensland’s cane fields to the boardrooms of Washington, the next few years will be crucial. But one thing is certain – this industry is ready to meet whatever comes next head-on, as it always has.