Western Australian farmers are the nation's most independent with a new study showing they are receiving less financial assistance compared to those in other states.
A Department of Agriculture and Food study released today looked at the value of government assistance received by farmers across the country.
The comparison was made using the internationally recognised 'producer support estimate' to quantify the percentage of a farmers income derived from the government.
"In 2008, Western Australia had a PSE of 2.32 per cent whereas the national average was a much higher 5.85 per cent. When WA is excluded, the national PSE rises to 6.77 per cent," Agriculture and Foods Minister Terry Redman said.
"The difference between WA and our international competitors is even more significant. The WA figure is well below the Office for Economic Co-operation and Development average PSE of 21 per cent.
"WA farmers are punching well above their weight in a marketplace where many of our international competitors are effectively subsidised and can accommodate less efficient practices and higher margins for error.
"This research highlights the importance of reducing regulation and ensuring that future government policies do not place unnecessary constraints on the industry."
