As Australia heads to the polls on 3 May, the National Farmers' Federation (NFF) is demanding all parties commit to securing the nation's farming future.
"This election comes at a critical moment for Australian agriculture and every family that relies on farmers for affordable food and fibre," said NFF President David Jochinke.
"The choices made by the next government will shape our ability to feed Australians for generations to come."
The NFF's six-point plan to Secure Australia's Farming Future calls for immediate action on:
- Planning for Food Security - Developing a National Food Security Preparedness Strategy
- Cutting Farm Costs - Reducing regulatory burdens and maintaining vital support programs
- Partnering for Sustainability - Investing in practical environmental solutions led by farmers
- Building a Productive Workforce - Addressing critical labour shortages and enhancing safety
- Securing Market Access - Strengthening trade relationships and boosting export competitiveness
- Investing in the Regions - Fixing unsafe rural roads and delivering on regional housing and childcare
"Australian agriculture stands at the intersection of major global trends that will reshape farming and food prices," Mr. Jochinke explained.
"From rising input costs to climate pressures, our $80 billion export industry faces unprecedented challenges.
"But with the right policies, we can turn these challenges into opportunities - keeping food affordable while growing towards our goal of becoming a $100 billion industry by 2030."
The NFF urges voters to ask their local candidates: "What's your plan to secure Australia's farming future and keep farmers farming?"
