The National Farmers’ Federation welcomes the Federal Government’s decision to establish a fertiliser taskforce, commit to fertiliser underwriting, and defer the phased transition to full cost recovery for export regulatory services until 1 July 2027.
The phased transition was originally due to begin on 1 July 2026.
NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the package of measures provides welcome breathing space for farmers and exporters facing sustained input cost pressures and market uncertainty.
“These are practical decisions we’ve called for that will deliver more certainty for farmers and exporters at a time when margins are under real pressure,” Mr McIntyre said.
“It reflects the realities facing agriculture right now, including the difficulties in securing critical inputs like fertiliser, which are needed for food production.”
Mr McIntyre said the NFF had been strongly advocating on these issues as part of a broader push to reduce cost pressures across the supply chain caused by the conflict in the Middle East and the disappointing European Union trade deal.
“We have been clear that additional cost burdens, such as the full cost recovery plan, risk undermining competitiveness and confidence right across the agricultural sector. This decision is a direct response to those concerns.”
He said today’s announcement would provide relief to most exporting industries, particularly those with tight export margins.
The NFF said it will continue to engage with Government on long-term cost recovery settings to ensure they remain fair, transparent and do not undermine agricultural competitiveness.
“The establishment of a fertiliser taskforce is an important step forward, and we look forward to being actively engaged as a taskforce member.
“We will continue to work with Government on measures to address the impacts the conflict in the Middle East is having on farmers and food production. This includes reiterating our calls for an agriculture-specific plan.”
Stacey Davidson
Chrissy Kerin