National Statement on First Nations in Agriculture

All Australian agriculture ministers have agreed to develop a National Statement on First Nations in Agriculture. 

Ministers agreed that the statement should be ambitious and driven by First Nations self determination principles. They also agreed it should advance First Nations perspectives, experiences and interests.

The goal of the statement is to drive greater economic inclusion for First Nations Australians in agriculture, fisheries and forestry. 

A taskforce was stood up to develop the statement in 2024. Taskforce members are representatives of Commonwealth, state and territory governments.

The taskforce is working to deliver the statement to ministers in early 2025. This will depend on the time and opportunities available to partner with First Nations stakeholders on the development of the statement. 

The taskforce will consult nationally to develop the statement. Initial consultation is anticipated to begin in May 2024.