Pastoralists are facing rent increases of up to 700 per cent over three years after the State Government approved the final pastoral rent figures.

Pastoralists and Graziers Association president Rob Gillam said the increases were just another burden on an industry faced with fires, floods, drought, increased labour costs and last year’s live export ban.

“Pastoralists in Western Australia pay the highest lease rates in Australia, with many paying significantly more than comparable properties in Queensland and the Northern Territory, and have less secure land tenure than any other State,” he said.

“Despite numerous pleas from the PGA and individual pastoralists, the Department of Regional Development and Lands have recommended to the Treasurer to implement this final instalment, which will be the final nail in the coffin for many producers.

“Rents for pastoral leases will next be reviewed in 2014 and there is nothing to suggest that increases in lease rents of a similar magnitude may not be implemented.”

He said the agricultural industry was being neglected, with too much focus on mining.

Upper Gascoyne Shire president and Glenburgh Station lessee Ross Collins said politicians were treating the pastoral industry with “arrogant disregard”.

Mr Collins said the increases did not reflect how the industry was performing financially.

He said Glenburgh Station, 300km south-east of Carnarvon, was looking at a 280 per cent increase in rent over two years.

Mr Collins said phasing the increases in over three years would ease the pressure slightly but it would not be enough.