Last call on senators to vote NO on the Biosecurity Levy and #ScraptheTax

As the Biosecurity Protection Levy looms for consideration in the senate today, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) issues a final, impassioned plea to senators, underscoring the critical importance of standing in solidarity with Australian farmers and decisively voting to #ScraptheTax.

NFF President David Jochinke conveys a sense of urgency, acknowledging the persistent threat posed by the levy’s potential passage, despite months of concerted opposition from within the agricultural sector and throughout the broader supply chain.

Expressing profound dismay, Jochinke laments the apparent disconnect between the government’s stance and the genuine concerns voiced by farmers nationwide. He emphasises the government’s failure to engage in meaningful dialogue, address substantive issues, or heed the resounding call to reconsider this deeply unpopular policy.

In a remarkable display of unity, the NFF and its extensive membership, representing the full spectrum of Australia’s agricultural commodities, have mobilised to send an unequivocal message: the Biosecurity Levy is unjust, ill-conceived, and detrimental to the livelihoods of Australian farmers.

Jochinke further underscores the troubling disregard exhibited by the government towards expert advice, including recommendations from reputable bodies such as the Productivity Commission and the Australian National University. He highlights the levy’s potential to confer a competitive advantage to foreign competitors, while burdening local farmers with unnecessary financial constraints.

With a rallying cry, the NFF implores senators, particularly those from the Greens and the cross bench, to heed the voices of farmers and independent experts alike. They call upon the senate to fulfil its vital role as a check on rushed and flawed policy initiatives, emphasising the imperative of thorough scrutiny and critical evaluation.

In essence, the NFF’s message to the senate is clear: Australian farmers deserve better. By voting to #ScraptheTax, senators have the opportunity to demonstrate their unwavering support for the agricultural sector and uphold the interests of the communities they represent.

For more background on the Biosecurity Protection Levy click here.

For more rural news, click here.