Farmers unable to access mental health care amid mounting pressure, new data shows
Just one in seven farmers can easily access mental health support, new data presented at this morning’s NFF-Suicide Prevention Australia (SPA) Parliamentary Breakfast reveals — even as psychological distress and exposure to natural disasters climb sharply across the sector. The figures, drawn from the University of Canberra’s Regional Wellbeing Survey and presented by Professor Jacki […]
To Feast or Famine remains a question
Comments attributable to NFF Horticulture Council Chair Jolyon Burnett: As we enter the closing stages of the 2025 Federal Election campaign, it is good to see both major political parties—Labor and the Coalition—recognising the critical importance of the horticulture sector to Australia’s food security, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability. The NFF Horticulture Council’s election platform, […]
Without a better childcare system, the future of Australian farms is at risk
By NFF President, David ‘DJ’ Jochinke Australia’s regions are the engine room of our nation – driving our economy and home to the farms that grow the food and fibre we all rely on daily. From the paddocks of our farm in western Victoria, I see more than crops and livestock. I see modern farming […]
Major coalition: Urgent mental health help needed in agriculture
A major coalition has sent a powerful message calling for immediate action to address the mental health crisis in agriculture. More than 30 rural and healthcare organisations have joined forces for the first time to launch a joint statement to address the crisis disproportionally affecting people in agriculture. Ahead of a federal budget and election, […]
Childcare deserts holding kids and regional Australia back
Regional families are missing out, businesses are struggling and local economies are paying the price – all because of a lack of childcare in the bush. It’s why the National Farmers’ Federation and its members are imploring all sides of politics to commit to the $1 billion Building Early Education Fund, ahead of the election. […]
NFF priorities for an incoming Federal Government
By NFF President, David ‘DJ’ Jochinke The impending Federal Election will be a defining moment for Australian agriculture. The possibility of a minority government; global trade uncertainty with Donald Trump at the helm of the US; and the climate targets that are racing towards us, could all have an impact on our sector this year. […]
Government adds to cost of living as buybacks begin
Regional communities are bracing themselves for the worst as the Federal Government opens its cheque book for Murray-Darling Basin buybacks tomorrow. National Farmers’ Federation Water Committee Chair Malcolm Holm said while families, farmers and businesses had been dreading this day, all Australians should be worried. “It’s not just regional communities who’ve warned against the disastrous […]
Open letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Dear Prime Minister, Last week, for the first time in 39 years, farmers from across Australia determined that they no longer have confidence in your government to represent their interests. This vote followed an unprecedented walk-out by farmers on your Agriculture Minister’s budget address. This is not how we usually operate at the National Farmers’ […]
Australian agriculture passes vote of no confidence in the Albanese Government
Australian agriculture’s peak policy-making forum has sent a powerful message to the Albanese Government. The National Farmers’ Federation’s Members Council, comprising Australia’s state and commodity agricultural organisations, has today carried three motions: NFF President David Jochinke said this was an unprecedented move representing a united front from the industry. “Farmers, fishers and foresters feel they […]
Supermarket prices impacting public health
The NFF Horticulture Council has echoed concerns raised by the Australian Greens with the results of their recent consumer survey revealing more than half (56%) of all Australians are buying less fruits and vegetables as a result of higher prices. Council Chair Jolyon Burnett said the survey results point towards the wider impacts of higher […]