Farmers across the nation are calling on the federal government to work collaboratively with Australian farmers amid growing global uncertainty by making strategic investments to enhance agricultural productivity and boost national economic growth.
National Farmers' Federation (NFF) President David Jochinke emphasized that global market instability and rising household costs were impacting Australians, but targeted investment in agriculture could deliver broader economic benefits. "We may be in the shadow of an election, but stalling any investment in agriculture will only set the economy and productivity back," Jochinke said.
He explained that in November, the NFF submitted 20 targeted investment proposals to the government as part of its 2024–25 Pre-Budget Submission. These proposals, Jochinke noted, are not short-term fixes but strategic, well-planned initiatives designed to help the sector reach its $100 billion goal.
"We know strategic spending and the right policy settings create growth opportunities—growth in the economy, growth in employment, and growth in agriculture," he said. "As we face potentially major changes to global trading and geopolitical frameworks that have supported our growth for decades, sensible investments into the sector will ensure Australian farmers are best placed to manage the challenges ahead."
Among the key priorities outlined by the NFF is a $1 billion investment to repair roads and improve regional infrastructure, ensuring efficient movement of food from paddock to plate. The NFF also called for $30 million to continue the Agriculture Trade and Market Access Cooperation Program, supporting market diversification and helping maintain Australia's $80 billion export industry.
In addition, the submission proposed $500,000 to support increased activity by the Cairns Group of Farm Leaders in promoting free and open trade. A further $2 billion was proposed for nature repair methodologies, particularly targeting invasive pests and weeds, including carp in river systems.
To help address workforce shortages, the NFF recommended a $175 million farmworker accommodation stimulus package aimed at attracting and retaining skilled workers while contributing to the growth of regional communities. The submission also included a request for $150 million for climate-related research and development, with a focus on delivering viable solutions that work with, rather than displace, agriculture.
Lastly, the NFF urged the government to allocate $50 million to address the mental health crisis that continues to disproportionately affect people in agriculture.
"With the right investment, Australian agriculture can be a powerhouse for jobs, exports, and regional communities," Jochinke concluded.
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