The National Farmers' Federation has welcomed the opportunity today to hear more about, and provide contributions to, the plan that will help shape agriculture's contribution in Australia's journey to net zero by 2050.
NFF Chief Executive Officer Tony Mahar attended today's roundtable, hosted by the Minister for Agriculture, Julie Collins, to discuss the Agriculture and Land Sector Plan being developed by the Federal Government.
Mr Mahar emphasised the importance of ensuring farmers had a seat at the table in these discussions, not only providing input on agriculture's contributions, but also to identify what opportunities a low-emissions future could bring to the sector.
"Farmers have consistently voiced concerns about other sectors exploiting agriculture by locking up farmland to offset their emissions at the expense of food and fibre production" Mr Mahar said.
"The reality is farmers have a growing population they need to feed and clothe. Farmers are already leading the charge towards a low-emissions future, and we must ensure this is reocognised.
"National emissions reduction is a shared responsibility. Agriculture is ready to play its part, but it must be fair and not comprise productivity, profitability or food and fibre security."
Mr Mahar welcomed the collaborative approach shown by Minister Collins and her Department, and the commitment to working with industry stakeholders.
"We are especially pleased the Government has reaffirmed it will not impose emissions targets on agriculture.
"Today's discussion showed a strong understanding within Government that sustainability and productivity are at the core of farming. Leveraging these strengths will ensure we maintain our competitive edge in global markets."
Mr Mahar said the Government had also recognised the need for more investment and better data and new technologies to support farmers achieve this economy-wide goal.
"We need the Government to continue enabling investment into new technologies to help farmers drive down emissions on behalf of all Australians.
"This will position agriculture as a central player in Australia's low emissions future while giving farmers the tools to succeed and adapt in a changing climate.
"We thank Minister Collins for working with the farm sector and look forward to continuing to work closely with the Government to ensure agriculture continues to be part of the solution in meeting our climate goals."
