Media Centre

Submission to Independent review of the EPBC Act interim report. Download PDF File

Today, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) provided its submission to the ACCC Agricultural Goods Inquiry outlining real life examples of the alarming conduct farmers are all too often subject to, at varying points along the food supply chain.  “The unfair and unethical practices that farmers still encounter, despite the development of various codes of conduct […]

National Farmers’ Federation President Fiona Simson said further investment in new energy technologies, as announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison today, was positive news for farmers. “Prime Minister Morrison with Energy Minister, Angus Taylor, has today announced a significant package of measures that includes clear recognition of the role of agriculture in the energy sector,” […]

The terrible experiences of three backpackers revealed by the ABC today are shocking to all Australians and have highlighted the deficiencies of the current working holiday maker visa program, for agriculture’s labour needs. NFF CEO Tony Mahar said the Government must establish an agriculture-specific visa (AgVisa) to help fix the problem. “Unfortunately, there are individuals who choose […]

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has praised an announcement by the Federal Government on the implementation of a comprehensive liquid fuel security plan for Australia. “As an industry that relies on diesel for the majority of its energy use, agriculture requires a secure supply of liquid fuel to ensure its operations can proceed uninterrupted,” NFF […]

Farmers need urgent action from government to address what is now a critical worker shortage.   The National Farmers’ Federation’s Horticulture Council this week provided governments with 10 measures to attract displaced Australians to farm work and to safely restart the meaningful recruitment of foreign workers.  A depletion of the foreign labour force – seasonal workers […]

National Farmers’ Federation Chief Executive Tony Mahar has thanked the Premiers of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Chief Ministers of the Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory for their commitment to adopt consistent principles and protocols that will oversee the movement of agricultural workers and equipment. Mr Mahar said it was disappointing the […]

Today’s high level announcement of further reforms for the Murray Darling Basin, by Federal Water Minister, Keith Pitt, is welcomed by the National Farmers’ Federation. Minister Pitt made several key announcements following his consideration of the Water for Environments Special Account and the Sefton Socio-Economic Report, these include: A new ‘Trust and Transparency’ body; No […]

Farmers are despairing at an apparent breakdown in negotiations between states, territories and the federal government towards the promised Agriculture Workers Movement Code. On 21 August, National Cabinet committed to develop a national solution to agriculture’s border crossing issues within two weeks. Less than 48 hours out from that deadline and the NFF is demanding […]

Today’s agricultural innovation agenda announcement by Agriculture Minister David Littleproud is good news for farmers, National Farmers’ Federation Chief Executive Tony Mahar said. “The NFF and our members have been calling on the Government to take a lead role in supporting digital agriculture through the rural innovation system for some time. “As part of the innovation agenda, […]