NSW Farmers has urged political parties to invest in agriculture and reverse the anti-farming policies driving surging food insecurity as the next federal election is called.
One in six Australians experienced severe food insecurity in 2024 and NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin said many Aussie households would go hungry unless smarter decisions were made to support agriculture.
“If we want certainty of local production to feed and clothe our people, then the anti-farming policies of the past must go, and smart decisions on environment, biosecurity, business and infrastructure must take their place,” Mr Martin said.
“The transition to renewable energy must not come at the cost of our fertile agricultural land and farming communities, and environmental goals must not cost us either the water we need to grow our plants and animals, or the land we need to grow them on.
“We also need meaningful trade doors opened, real competition reform, a legislated right to repair, increased instant asset write-offs and the retention of the off-road diesel fuel rebate if we are to put food on tables and clothes on backs.”
Further investment in regional infrastructure, biosecurity systems and workforce sustainability must also be a priority for the next Federal Government to ensure farmers can continue to boost their production into the future, Mr Martin said.
“Our mobile coverage connectivity needs to be upgraded, not downgraded; our roads and bridges need real repair; and we need solutions to build a stronger, sustainable agricultural workforce here in Australia,” Mr Martin said.
“Bolstering our biosecurity systems is another non-negotiable if we want to protect our industry against exotic pests and disease, so our plants and animals can thrive.
“The future for food, fibre and our Aussie families is bright – but only if we let our farmers keep on farming