Producers Maintain Opposition to Biosecurity Levy

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) acknowledges Agriculture Minister, the Hon. Murray Watt’s comments on the Biosecurity Protection Levy during his opening address to Senate estimates. However, without further detail, producers persist in their opposition to this policy.

NFF President David Jochinke stated, “The agricultural sector, in conjunction with supply chain participants, has overwhelmingly voiced objections to the levy, citing numerous issues with its policy framework and implementation.”

“At the 40th NFF Members’ Council in October, the sector’s primary policy-making body comprising all NFF member presidents from state and commodity organizations, passed a motion opposing the policy,” Jochinke added.

He acknowledged the Minister’s remarks today, which recognize industry concerns, particularly regarding equitability and transparency. However, signifcant details regarding the levy’s design and its practical implications for producers remain undisclosed.

Jochinke emphasized the need for transparency regarding the impact on existing levies, the utilization of collected funds for concrete biosecurity outcomes, establishment of formal producer oversight mechanisms, and acknowledgment of existing producer contributions to the broader biosecurity system.

“With less than fve months until implementation, Australia’s 85,000 farmers and numerous supply chain participants are confronted with what appears to be a fundamentally fawed proposal,” Jochinke asserted.

He urged the Government to continue listening to producers and implement a process to address their concerns adequately. Until these issues are properly resolved, the NFF maintains its opposition to the Levy.