Residents of Orange are expressing significant concern following comments made by NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty during a budget estimates hearing, in which she asserted that the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) does not have a head office. This statement contradicts a 2020 event where a plaque was unveiled at a newly constructed government building in Orange, labeling it as the 'NSW Department of Primary Industries Headquarters'. This inconsistency has raised alarms in the local community, with fears centered on potential job losses and career path implications for local residents.

Local politicians such as Nationals MLC Scott Barrett have amplified these concerns, emphasizing that the local economy heavily relies on the DPIRD's presence. The revelation from Minister Moriarty has led to tension among the residents who feel misled about the significance of their local government building. In light of the Minister's comments, there are questions regarding the stability of jobs within the department in a region that is already facing various economic challenges.

As state officials discuss the operational structure of the DPI, there is a pressing need to clarify the status and future of the department's presence in Orange. The community is seeking reassurance that their local government building will continue to play a vital role in supporting the agricultural sector and local employment. The situation represents a broader issue regarding regional services and their sustainability, highlighting the challenges faced by rural areas in maintaining essential government functions.