Blueprint for Aust Ag: time running out to have your say

Only four weeks remain for all interested in or involved with agriculture to have their say on the future of the sector via the Blueprint for Australian Agriculture. Input into the Blueprint has been sought from across the farming sector and the wider supply chain since February, and the opportunity to contribute will close on Friday 13 July. National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President Jock Laurie is urging those who haven’t yet taken part in the Blueprint to do so now. “The Blueprint is an opportunity for our sector to get on the front foot and start planning for the future we want to see – rather than waiting for others to make decisions about our future for us,” Mr Laurie said. “It’s a chance for all in the agricultural sector and the supply chain to have their say on the issues and challenges facing us; and to help map out opportunities and solutions for a strong and sustainable future. “I encourage all with a stake in the future of the farming sector – farmers, transporters, retailers, processors, consultants, rural business, input suppliers, agribusinesses, educators, governments, rural communities, consumer groups and consumers – to take part. Getting involved in the Blueprint is simple: you can complete the online survey http://www.nff.org.au/blueprint[here]; take part in the final face-to-face forum in Tasmania on Thursday 12 July, or interact via two online webinars, one at 5:30pm on Thursday 5 July, one at 5:30pm on Monday 9 July. “You can take part in the webinars from wherever you are – the office, the tractor cab, the kitchen table – via your phone or computer. So, if you can’t make it to the Blueprint; we’ll bring the Blueprint to you,” Mr Laurie said. For more information on the Blueprint or to complete the online survey, register for the Tasmanian forum or seek details on logging onto the Blueprint webinars, click http://www.nff.org.au/blueprint[here] or call the NFF on 02 6269 5666. The Blueprint is an initiative of the NFF, with support from Westpac, Woolworths and the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.