The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) today welcomes Mike Guerin as Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter for Australia’s peak farm body at a critical time for the sector.
Mr Guerin said he steps into the role with a clear view of the pressures farmers, graziers and fishers are currently facing.
“Right now, Australian agriculture is being tested from all angles,” Mr Guerin said.
“Conflict in the Middle East is disrupting global supply chains, driving up input costs and creating real uncertainty around access to fuel, fertiliser and freight. For farmers and fishers on the ground, it’s hitting the bottom line and adding serious strain to their operations.”
Mr Guerin said while the challenges are significant, so too is the sector’s track record of resilience.
“This industry has copped its fair share over the years, from droughts, floods and market shocks, yet it keeps turning up. That resilience is our backbone, but it shouldn’t be taken for granted.”
With reports a potential Australia–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) could be finalised within days, Mr Guerin made clear the NFF’s position.
“Farmers want a deal with the EU, but it has to stack up,” he said.
“No deal is better than a bad deal. And with everything going on globally, there couldn’t be worse timing to lock in an agreement that sells Australian agriculture short.”
Looking ahead, Mr Guerin said providing value to the NFF’s members would be a key priority.
“No matter what they produce, farmers and fishers are navigating one of the most volatile periods this generation has seen. In times like this, unity is essential.”
Mr Guerin said getting the organisation’s membership model right would be central to ensuring the NFF remains fit for purpose.
“We need a model that is inclusive, forward-looking, and capable of bringing the whole sector with us. If we get that right, we’ll be in a far stronger position to deliver for Australian agriculture into the future.”
Mr Guerin also paid homage to Su McCluskey who has been the Interim Chief Executive since September.
“Su has been a steady hand, guiding the NFF through a rollercoaster of highs – like the announcement the industry will hit its $100 billion target four years early – through to the many twists and turns from the conflict in the Middle East.
“Su’s leadership at the NFF marked a full circle, returning to the organisation after many years earlier working as Director of Taxation and as General Manager, Policy.
“I know our members, partners and the staff are grateful to Su for her outstanding leadership. We look forward to continuing to work closely with her and NFF Board Director Tracy Sullivan through their work on the National Food Council, which has been asked to focus its agenda on the current situation in the Middle East as it helps the Federal Government develop the National Food Security Strategy.”
About Mike Guerin:
Mike comes from being Acting CEO of NSW Farmers. Prior to this, he served for eight years as CEO of AgForce Queensland. Mike’s career began with two decades in banking, culminating in corporate agribusiness, as Managing Director of Elders Rural Services. He has experience in large-scale corporate governance, capital markets, and complex stakeholder management. He was subsequently appointed CEO of AgForce, where he built a strong reputation across the NFF federated family and played a central role in national reform workshops.
Stacey Davidson
Ashleigh Whittaker