Farmers in crisis: Depression and anxiety rife among Aussie farmers
New research shines a light on Australian farmer mental health with saddening statistics around self-harm and suicide, sparking calls for government support and industry-wide collaboration to create farmer-to-farmer support networks across the country. New research released today paints a saddening picture of the mental health of Australia’s hard-working farmers with close to third (30%) reporting […]
Call for inquiry after grains farmer losses run into the billions
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is calling for an investigation into the grain supply chain after a report found a price irregularity that could mean billions of dollars in losses to farmers. NFF CEO Tony Mahar said the Federal Government needed to respond immediately by instigating an inquiry through the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission […]
Statement on UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement
Comments attributable to NFF Chief Executive, Tony Mahar We welcome the ratification of Australia’s trade deal with the United Kingdom by the UK Parliament. This deal improves access to an important market for Aussie farmers. It will also give UK consumers the option of sustainable, high quality Australian produce on supermarket shelves to complement their […]
Statement on Independent Panel on live sheep export
Comments attributable to Tony Mahar, Chief Executive Officer, National Farmers’ Federation The National Farmers’ Federation notes the Minister’s announcement that an Independent Panel will be established to advise on the proposed phase out of live sheep export. The NFF stands with 24 other peak agricultural bodies and farmers across Australia in opposing the ban on […]
Business Benchmark on Animal Welfare has no place in Australia
The peak body for Australia’s farm sector is calling on businesses assessed under the Business Benchmark on Animal Welfare to rethink their links to the scheme. The call follows revelations that the Benchmark will target a contraction in Australia’s livestock sector. A consultation paper released by the UK-based organisation, which is affiliated with some of Australia’s largest companies, proposes to […]
US right to repair for farm machinery will disadvantage Aussie growers
The National Farmers’ Federation says an agreement struck in the US allowing farmers the right to repair their own farm equipment will place Aussie farmers at a disadvantage unless similar steps are taken here. The right to repair allows farmers to take their equipment to a dealer of their choice to fix a problem or […]
Immersive paddock to port tour builds Australia-China links
University students from China and Australia have hit the road together this week to experience the best of agriculture and regional Australia. The tour is part of the China-Australia Youth Agriculture Program, delivered by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) in partnership with GrainGrowers. NFF Chief Executive Officer Tony Mahar said the 19 students from universities […]
NFF welcomes Biosecurity Strategy, calls for action on funding
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the release today of the National Biosecurity Strategy, describing it as a critical step in safeguarding Australia’s farm sector. NFF President Fiona Simson said the immense pressure on Australia’s biosecurity system warranted a clear strategy for the future. “The NFF called for the development of this strategy in […]
Statement on new Biosecurity Taskforce
Quotes attributable to NFF President Fiona Simson Bringing together agriculture officials and other emergency management and response agencies is the right idea. Industry has been planning for a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) incursion for decades. We have a world class biosecurity system, and we have detailed and effective plans in place to manage an […]
Statement on food price inflation
Statement by Fiona Simson, President, National Farmers’ FederationToday’s inflation numbers reveal the significant pinch consumers are feeling at the supermarket checkout. Food and beverages are the 4th highest inflation category over the past 12 months at 5.9%. When we look specifically at fruit and vegetables, these have seen a whopping 5.8% spike in the last […]