Young farmers are calling on all sides of politics to back a federal first farm buyer scheme as the latest interest rate decision delivers little relief for the next generation.
With the Reserve Bank of Australia deciding to keep rates on hold today, NSW Young Farmers Council Chair Martin Murray said now more than ever, the next generation of farmers need the support of our political leaders.
"Much like the housing crisis we're seeing in the cities, the price of purchasing a farm has become out of reach for too many young rural Australians," Mr Murray said.
"The difference here, however, is that farms produce the food every Australian relies on.
"That's why we need politicians to commit this federal election to a first farmer buyer scheme to provide targeted support to assist young farmers to compete fairly in the farmland market.
"By improving capital access and reducing costs, this scheme would unlock the next generation's potential to invest, so they can grow and drive the future of our farming industry."
With the federal election just weeks away, NSW Farmers is also calling for a reduction in red tape that's slapping unnecessary costs on food and fibre production.
"We need new laws to allow us the right to repair for our agricultural machinery, so we can access local experts at fair prices to get these key tools fixed," Mr Murray said.
"We also need to see the live sheep by sea trade ban reversed, the proposed super tax on family farms scrapped, and real competition reform that means fair prices and fair trade for farmers.
"Anti-farming policies are sending costs through the roof and pushing farmers out the door. It doesn't have to be like this, and we need our farmers if we are to keep food on our forks and clothes on our backs."
