ABC | Tuesday, 16/08/2011

Concern about Chinese looking for investment opportunity in WA grain belt

The Western Australian Farmers Federation has concerns that Chinese companies are considering buying farms across WA's Great Southern and South West.

A recent press report suggests the Chinese are interested in purchasing around 80,000 hectares as part of its drive to shore up food security.

"Rather disturbing if one country does lock up very large slices of Western Australian agricultural land," said WAFF president Mike Norton.

"Whilst it may be good for access to China, don't think that's going to be good for the local communities and the younger generation that are very keen to get involved in agriculture in Western Australia."