The NSW Government is making it simpler and easier for farmers to start and operate agritourism businesses across the state. Whether its farm stays, cafes, cellar doors, retreats, roadside stalls, fruit picking, or small wedding venues, farmers across Tweed will have more opportunities to run their agritourism experiences through fast-tracked or without planning approvals.
Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the NSW Government’s final agritourism policy has come into effect, saving farmers time and money, and giving them cash flow opportunities right at their doorstep.
“These reforms make it easier and cheaper for our farmers to set up, run and grow agritourism experiences on their properties, such as cellar doors, fruit picking, camping, roadside stalls and small wedding venues,” Mr Provest said.
“More of these activities mean more tourists will visit our region. It’s also a great win for primary producers who can diversify their income and build economic resilience against natural hazards.
“Our primary producers have battled through floods, bushfires, drought and the COVID-19 pandemic, and we want to make it easier for them to not only recover but thrive.”
Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said the policy would support and expand the booming agriculture industry.
“Landowners wanting to diversify their farm will be able to start an agritourism business without lodging a development application, as long as conditions are met,” Mr Roberts said.
“We’ve cut the red tape so farmers can easily access the tools needed to cultivate a growing business. The NSW Government will work with councils to monitor the policy and how it’s operating, and make sure it’s balancing the needs of farmers and the community.”
Agritourism is a growing sector for both the Australian and NSW economies, and is expected to be worth $18.6 billion nationally by 2030.
For more information visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/agritourism