Government Moves To Support Farmers Amid Global Uncertainty

The Government has announced a suite of measures aimed at supporting Australia’s farmers, fishers and producers as global conflict continues to place pressure on supply chains and costs.

In response to disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East, the Government is working to maintain export flows, stabilise input costs and strengthen the nation’s food production system.

A key measure includes deferring the phased transition to full cost recovery for export regulatory services by 12 months, now set to commence on 1 July 2027. The move is designed to provide greater certainty for farmers and producers already facing rising input costs.

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The Government is also establishing a new Fertiliser Supply Working Group, bringing together key agencies and industry representatives including Fertilizer Australia and the National Farmers Federation. The group will build on existing efforts to improve fertiliser availability, including monitoring supply chains and engaging alternative suppliers.

Additional support is being delivered through financial assistance programs, with more than $1.29 billion invested in rural support and resilience funding since July 2022. This includes the rollout of a new Drought Hardship Loan and expanded access to the Rural Financial Counselling Service.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the Government remained focused on supporting the sector through ongoing challenges.

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“We are working day and night with our farmers, fishers and producers to help manage this impact of the conflict in the Middle East,” Ms Collins said.

“Our farmers and producers feed millions of people both here and abroad, but events like the conflict in the Middle East reaffirm why we cannot be complacent.

“That’s why we’ve taken immediate action to help safeguard Australia’s food production system, and to support our farmers and producers – including to help get fuel and fertiliser into our regions.

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“We recognise the disruption the conflict in the Middle East has had on our farmers and producers, which is why we are deferring the commencement of the phased transition to full cost recovery for export regulatory services for one year.

“Our Government will never leave farmers behind who are facing hardship.”

CAPTION: New support measures aim to provide certainty for farmers and producers, helping safeguard Australia’s food supply and export strength during ongoing global disruptions. Photo source: Shutterstock

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