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National Farmers' Federation

High Court disqualification of Parliamentarians

Following today’s historic High Court decision, the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) will work proactively with the Prime Minister, Minister Fifield and Minister Chester as they step into acting roles in relevant portfolios.
The loss of Mr Joyce from the agriculture and water resources portfolio is regrettable. Australian agriculture has few stronger advocates than Mr Joyce.
Mr Joyce’s passion and wide-ranging knowledge of our industry, has stood the farm sector in good stead during his time in the Ministry.
We have also benefited from Mr Joyce’s role as Deputy Prime Minister, through which he escalated the profile of agriculture and water with his cabinet colleagues.
I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of Deputy Nationals Leader Fiona Nash, who has been a passionate advocate for rural, regional and remote Australians over many years.
The portfolio of agriculture and water resources is of utmost national importance and one that requires stability and focus.
We are grateful to the Prime Minister for his decision to take carriage of this important area personally.
The latest national accounts confirmed that agriculture is Australia’s fastest growing industry. In 2016-2017, agricultural production was valued at $60 billion.The sector has a goal to achieve a production value of $100 billion by 2030.
To reach this, we need to expand trade and market access; secure additional investment; improve regional Australia’s connectivity and embrace new technologies; find solutions to workforce shortages; solve Australia’s energy crisis; continue to build Australian agriculture’s brand and more.
To continue to take advantage of the opportunities ahead we need strong, stable leadership.
As the peak body representing Australian agriculture, the NFF looks forward to working with the Acting Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Prime Minister Turnbull in the weeks ahead.
NOTE: Fiona Simson will be available for media comment at Tamworth Regional Airport today from 4.30pm EDST (subject to flight arrivals).

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