Tony Burke is the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and the Federal Member for Watson.

From day one, Tony said he would not simply take advice from the department and peak industry groups, but also through meetings with people who work the land, on their land.

Since becoming minister he has travelled more than 100,000 km across Australia, meeting people working on farms, on fishing boats and in the forestry sector.

His achievements so far include major economic reforms to the bulk wheat export marketing system, tripling the funding for climate change research and concluding a Memorandum of Understanding with Indonesia to help tackle illegal logging.

In addition, Tony initiated the Beale Review into the nation’s biosecurity system, has invested in natural resource management including the $200 million Reef Rescue program and has committed funding to help research breeding problems in the iconic Western Rocklobster fishery.

Tony is also continuing to work with stakeholders to review the nation’s drought support system and better prepare farmers for future challenges.

He believes Australian farmers are world leaders in improving biodiversity and producing more with less water.

By investing in infrastructure and research and expanding market access, Tony believes the Rudd Government will help to secure a vibrant long-term future for our primary industries.

In previous roles, Tony was appointed directly to the front bench on entering Federal Parliament and served as Shadow Minister for Small Business and Shadow Minister for Immigration.

He has also served as a Member of the NSW Legislative Council.