THE National Farmers’ Federation on Monday congratulated Anthony Albanese and the ALP on re-election.
NFF President David Jochinke said the agricultural sector stands ready to work constructively with the Government.
“We look forward to continuing our engagement with Prime Minister Albanese and the Ministry team on the issues that matter to farmers and the rural communities they support,” Mr Jochinke said.
“When agriculture thrives, so do regional communities and the Australian economy. Not only do Australian farmers feed and clothe Australians, but the sector also employs over 255,000 people and production is forecast to reach $91 billion this year.
“Industry and Government have backed the NFF’s Roadmap for agriculture to become a $100 billion industry by 2030, by working together this goal is within reach.
“The NFF and our members want to focus back in on that $100 billion target and work together on a positive plan to grow the industry.”
Mr Jochinke said the election campaign had brought important commitments from Labor, many of which reflected priorities put forward by the NFF and its members.
“They’ve backed things like moving on a right to repair, and investing in farm safety, connectivity, and our trade relationships. The job for us now is to partner on getting those things done,” he said.
“Importantly, they’ve embraced the idea of a National Food Security Strategy. We’re hoping we can use this to drive some really positive collaboration between industry and government. That piece of work has been a long time coming and with the uncertain state of the world it’s never been more critical.”
Mr Jochinke also acknowledged the Coalition, notably Opposition Leader Peter Dutton and Shadow Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud, for supporting many of the NFF’s election priorities during the election campaign.
Mr Jochinke said the NFF also recognised the independents and minor parties elected to the Parliament, and will work with these key parliamentary stakeholders over this term.
“Agricultural advocacy isn’t just about working with the major parties. We’ve appreciated independents and minor parties who’ve opened their door to the NFF in recent years,” he said.
“We want to build on those relationships and embrace new ones because delivering for farmers depends on having champions right across the Parliament.”
