Why We Took Our Message to Canberra
By NFF President, David Jochinke
Last week, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) delivered a powerful message to Canberra, as thousands of farmers and supporters from across Australia gathered for the historic National Farmer Rally. This wasn’t just a show of numbers; it was a collective call to action, urging our nation’s leaders to give farmers the representation they deserve in shaping agricultural policy.
For far too long, decisions about agriculture have been made without meaningful consultation with those who know the land best—the farmers who work it every day. At the rally, we addressed pressing issues, such as the proposed live sheep export ban, water buybacks in the Murray-Darling Basin, the Diesel Fuel Rebate, and the burdensome red tape around emissions reporting.
Our message was clear: farmers need practical, forward-thinking solutions, not ideologically driven agendas. This rally wasn’t about politics, but about crafting policies that will allow Australian agriculture to thrive. Unfortunately, we’ve seen out-of-touch activists pushing for restrictions that would reduce Australia’s food and fibre production, often without considering the economic and social implications for our regional communities.
Farmers are ready to work with all sides of politics to ensure that agricultural policies promote sustainability, enhance productivity, and support rural communities. It’s time to push back against the rhetoric that undermines our industry and focus on solutions that keep farmers farming.
The support from thousands who attended, along with many others who backed us from afar, sent a powerful message that cannot be ignored. This rally marks the beginning of a larger campaign to ensure farmers’ voices are not only heard but respected in policy discussions.
To all Australians, I say this: when farmers thrive, the entire nation benefits. We are the backbone of food security, the heart of regional Australia, and a critical driver of the national economy. Supporting Australian agriculture is an investment in the country’s future, and we must reject the harmful agendas that threaten to diminish our industry.
The voice of rural Australia was heard loud and clear in Canberra. Now, it’s time for action. We stand ready to collaborate with policymakers to develop a vision for Australian agriculture that ensures a sustainable, productive, and prosperous future for farmers and the nation.
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