2030 roadmap | 2025 Annual report card
Measuring our progress towards $100 billion
Each year, the National Farmers’ Federation releases its Report Card – summarising progress by industry and governments towards the aspirations of our 2030 Roadmap.
2030 roadmap | 2025 Annual report card
Each year, the National Farmers’ Federation releases its Report Card – summarising progress by industry and governments towards the aspirations of our 2030 Roadmap.
This past year has tested our resilience as farmers and as an industry, with both domestic and international pressures shaping the landscape in which we operate.
From global market volatility and shifting trade dynamics, to the ongoing challenge of droughts and flooding events at home, Australian agriculture has faced no shortage of headwinds. Domestically, we’ve continued to push back on policies that risk undermining our sector’s competitiveness, while working constructively with government where common ground exists.
Despite these challenges, the strength and adaptability of our farmers is clear. ABARES has forecast that we will go very close to reaching the $100 billion farm-gate target this year, a remarkable achievement that reflects the dedication and innovation of our industry.
Alongside this, we’ve achieved important policy wins for farmers. The proposed biosecurity tax was scrapped, the On-Farm Connectivity Program has been extended, and bipartisan commitments were secured on the National Food Security Strategy and in farm safety. We also successfully advocated for the expansion of the Regional Investment Corporation’s loan capacity beyond 2026, ensuring farmers have access to much-needed capital to grow and adapt.
Our 2030 Roadmap continues to guide these efforts, providing a unifying vision for how agriculture can grow, adapt and thrive. As government turns its attention to the national productivity agenda, our sector is well-placed to ensure farmers’ voices are at the centre of these important conversations
Looking ahead, farm safety, mental health, sustainability and global competitiveness will be key areas of focus. With continued collaboration between industry and government, I am confident we can turn challenges into opportunities and deliver lasting benefits for Australian agriculture and our communities.
David Jochinke
President
National Farmers’ Federation
*Forecast – based on June figures from ABARES
▲ 1%
▼ 2.5%
▼ 0.75% crops | 4% livestock
Select a pillar to jump to Report Card findings, or simply scroll down.
1.1 The agricultural value chain has deep engagement with its customers, based on trust and transparency.
Agriculture is ranked Australia’s most trusted industry.
1.2 Our value chain provides a competitive connection to global markets and delivers clear market signals to guide paddock-to-plate investment.
Australia’s freight cost per tonne-kilometre is competitive with major agricultural exporting nations.
1.3 Australia has world-leading market access, and the capacity to maximise the economic benefits.
A 50% reduction in agriculture exports experiencing non-tariff barriers each year. An average tariff faced by agricultural exports of 5%.
2.1 Farmers continue to embrace sustainable farming methods as part of a coordinated national framework that drives productivity and profitability, while recognising and rewarding environmental stewardship.
The net benefit for ecosystem services is equal to 5% of farm revenue.
2.2 Australian agriculture has cemented a competitive advantage and productivity gains by embracing a carbon neutral approach.
Australian agriculture is trending towards carbon neutrality by 2030.
2.3 Smart water policy has improved the health of our waterways, made our farms more productive, and made our regional communities more resilient.
A 20% increase in water use efficiency for irrigated agriculture by 2030.
2.4 We have stemmed the loss of productive farmland, improved the health of our landscapes, and brokered lasting co-existence arrangements with other landholders.
Maintain Australia’s total farmed area at 2018 levels.
2.5 Australia has halved food waste, and significantly reduced the number of Australians facing food insecurity – thanks in part to a proactive partnership with the agricultural value chain.
Halve food waste by 2030.
3.1 Public and private R&D efforts work seamlessly to translate world-class research into tools and services which give Australian agriculture a competitive edge
Australia becomes a Top 20 nation for innovation efficiency.
3.2 The agricultural value chain is highly digitised, with the benefits of new technology shared fairly among participants.
Every Australian farm has access to infrastructure and skills to connect to the Internet of Things.
3.3 The agricultural value chain has reduced its reliance on fossil fuels, in favour of biofuels and renewable sources of electricity that are affordable and reliable.
Australia’s farm energy sources are 50% renewable by 2030.
4.1 There is a clear career pathway to attract workers and develop their skills, with tailored streams for new entrants through to seasoned professionals.
Double the number of tertiary and vocational agriculture graduates by 2030.
4.2 We have robust and sustainable mechanisms to access labour from Australia and around the world.
Increase the available work force by 25%.
4.3 A career in Australian agriculture is an accessible aspiration for all.
Achieve gender parity in the agricultural workforce and double the number of women in management roles.
4.4 We live in strong regional communities that are home to: world class education and health facilities; culture and entertainment; and a diverse economy.
A mean score of 5 for every Physical Capital sub-measure in the Regional Wellbeing Survey.
4.5 Australian farms have embraced a culture of safety, dramatically reducing workplace injuries and eliminating on-farm fatalities. A coordinated effort has improved the physical and mental health of industry participants.
Zero farm fatalities. Close the gap between the psychological wellbeing of farmers and the broader community
5.1 Farm businesses have embraced new governance models -helping them better plan for the future, manage risk, and increase profit.
90% of family farms have documented business plans, including succession plans.
5.2 Investors are lining up to inject capital into Australia’s agricultural businesses, based on demonstrated returns and a supportive policy environment.
Year on year increase in equity investment in Australian farm businesses.
5.3 Innovative tools to reduce the inherent risks of farming are used by every Australian farm business – supported by consistent and well administered government risk management policies.
90% of Australia’s farmers employing multiple financial tools to manage risk.
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