Farmers Call for Strategic Budget Investment Amid Uncertainty
Farmers across the nation are calling for the Federal Government to work with Australian famers in the face of increasing global uncertainly by making strategic investment to drive agricultural productivity and boost national economic growth.
National Farmers’ Federation President David Jochinke said uncertainty in global markets and rising household costs were weighing heavily on Australians, but targeted investment in the farm sector would have a positive impact across the economy.
“We may be in the shadow of an election, but stalling any investment in agriculture will only set the economy and productivity back,” Mr Jochinke said.
“Through detailed deliberation with our members across the country, in November the NFF provided 20 targeted investments to the Government in our 2025-25 Pre-Budget Submission*.
“These investments aren’t short-term budget band aids. They are strategic, well-planned investments to drive the sector towards its $100 billion goal.
“We know strategic spending and the right policy settings create opportunities for growth. Growth in the economy, growth in employment and growth in agriculture.”
“As we face potentially major changes to the global trading and geopolitical frameworks that have underpinned our growth for decades, sensible investments into the sector will serve as a critical means to ensure Australian farmers are best placed to navigate the challenges that may lie ahead.”
Key priorities include:
$1 billion to fix our roads and improve regional infrastructure, making sure we get food from paddock to plate efficiently.
$30 million to continue the Agriculture Trade and Market Access Cooperation Program to support market diversification, critical to supporting Australia’s market access underpinning our $80 billion export industry.
$500,000 to support increased activity by the Cairns Group of Farm Leaders in the promotion of free and open trade.
$2 billion for nature repair methodologies, with a focus on reducing invasive pests and weeds, including carp in our river systems.
$175 million for a farmworker accommodation stimulus package to help attract and retain a skilled workforce and contribute to the overall growth of regional communities.
$150 million for climate related R&D. Agriculture needs real and economically viable options to participate in climate solutions. Let’s work with agriculture, not invade agricultural land.
$50 million to address the mental health crisis,disproportionally affecting people in agriculture.
“With the right investment, Australian agriculture can be a powerhouse for jobs, exports and regional communities,” Mr Jochinke said.
*2025-25 Pre-Budget Submission is available here. NB updated ask below to reflect the new coalition and Joint Statement for Government Action to urgently address mental health and suicide in agriculture:
14. $50 million over five years to deliver a comprehensive plan to strengthen mental health and wellbeing in agriculture.
https://nff.org.au/media-release/farmers-want-strategic-investment-in-budget-in-the-face-of-uncertainty/