Following the official swearing in ceremony earlier today, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) congratulates the newly appointed Turnbull ministry.
NFF Brent Finlay said the peak farm body has had a strong and constructive relationship with the Agriculture and Water Minister Barnaby Joyce, and welcomes incoming Assistant Minister Anne Ruston to the portfolio.
“We look forward to a collaborative approach to managing one of Australia’s most unique portfolios, with responsibility for water policy, among many other vital issues,” Mr Finlay said.
“We thank Senator Richard Colbeck for his ongoing commitment to Australian farmers, reflected in the transition from Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture to Assistant Minister for Trade and Investment.
Mr Finlay said it’s now back to business for the Government and for the NFF, working hard to ensure a bright future for Australian agriculture.
“Our immediate priorities are ensuring that the Government continues to deliver on its commitments to farmers – including a review of section 46 of the Competition and Consumer Act, the various Agricultural White Paper initiatives, Inland Rail and early ratification of the China FTA,” Mr Finlay said.
The NFF acknowledges the reappointment of Warren Truss, Julie Bishop, Andrew Robb, Greg Hunt and Peter Dutton to their respective Ministerial portfolios, ensuring continuity of knowledge and expertise in key areas affecting the agricultural sector.
“We are pleased to note portfolio changes in critical agricultural policy areas, including Scott Morrison as Treasurer; Christopher Pyne as Industry, Innovation and Science Minister; Josh Frydenberg as Minister for Resources, Energy and Northern Australia; Mitch Fifield as Communications Minister; and Kelly O’Dwyer as Small Business Minister,” Mr Finlay said.
“We also welcome Michaelia Cash as Minister for Employment; Simon Birmingham as Minister for Education and Training; Fiona Nash as Rural Health Minister and Christian Porter as Minister for Social Services – portfolios that play a major role in ensuring sustainable agriculture communities.
“The NFF looks forward to working with the new ministry to deliver strong policy outcomes for Australian agriculture,” Mr Finlay said.
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