NFF Calls on New Minister to Unlock Agriculture’s Potential

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has acknowledged the new frontbench lineup announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, welcoming the appointment of Tasmanian MP Julie Collins as the new Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Julie Collins replaces QLD Senator Murray Watt in the role.

NFF President David Jochinke extended a warm welcome to Minister Collins, emphasizing the strategic importance of the agriculture portfolio. “The farm sector is central to Australia’s climate and energy plans, as well as our economic prosperity. Most importantly, a thriving farm sector means quality, affordable produce for Aussie families amid cost-ofliving pressures. We hope Minister Collins will be a champion for sensible policies to support and grow our farm sector,” Mr. Jochinke said.

enraged our sector. But we also acknowledge his partnership and willingness to work with the sector on sustainability, establishing the workplace tripartite working group, and delivery of enhanced funding for biosecurity. His commitment to normalising our trade with China and ensuring Australian agriculture didn’t end up with a bad deal in the EU free trade agreement will also be remembered well.” published.

With Minister Watt now leading the Employment and Workplace Relations portfolio, Mr. Jochinke expressed hope that his knowledge of producers’ concerns would ensure these issues are addressed in his new role.

“The Australian Government will consider Dr. Craik’s fndings and respond in due course. The RIC Board will also review relevant recommendations.

Notably, the RIC has already started implementing some recommendations, such as enhancing data collection,” Mr. Lowe mentioned.

“This review is a step forward in ensuring the RIC continues to serve the best interests of Australian farmers and agribusinesses.”

The report is available at Regional Investment Corporation - DAFF

Mr. Jochinke also welcomed Senator Anthony Chisholm as the assistant minister to the agricultural portfolio, highlighting the beneft of having additional support in the role. “We look forward to also working with Senator Chisholm and having that additional horsepower of an assistant minister in the portfolio,” he stated.

Acknowledging the tenure of outgoing minister Murray Watt, Mr. Jochinke noted the contentious issues faced during his term. “Minister Watt’s time will most likely be remembered for its heated conficts with the sector – from live sheep, to water buybacks, to the biosecurity tax proposal and visa disputes. There’s no doubt we’ve seen some policies that have deeply impacted and

Looking ahead, Mr. Jochinke emphasized the need for collaborative efforts with the new ministerial team to strengthen agriculture’s relationship with the government. “We need Minister Collins to work closely and collaboratively with industry to strengthen agriculture’s relationship with the Government. We look forward to meeting with her soon.”

He reiterated the sector’s focus on achieving the $100 billion growth target and highlighted the importance of positive plans and investments to grow the economy through food and fbre production. “What farmers are looking for is a demonstration of this government’s commitment to our $100 billion growth target. We want to see positive plans and investments to grow the economy through food and fbre production. I look forward to continuing that conversation with the new Minister and frontbench team,” Mr. Jochinke concluded.