Australian farmers are calling for long-term investment rather than short-term budget measures, with the National Farmers’ Federation saying its 2026–27 Pre-Budget Submission is focused on practical policy settings to support the future of the sector.
With the Treasurer signalling hard decisions in the lead-up to the Federal Budget and little room for major spending splashes, the federation says farmers are not seeking handouts, but strategic investment in areas critical to productivity, resilience and competitiveness.
NFF president Hamish McIntyre said agriculture is on the cusp of reaching its long-held $100 billion production target, with the sector currently valued at $99.5 billion.
“Australian farmers are operating in a world of rising costs and red tape, uncertain markets and extreme weather events,” Mr McIntyre said.
“Yet, they’re still delivering close to $100 billion in production. But throw in a supply chain disruption or market shock and we’ll go backwards quickly.
“That’s why this submission is grounded in the NFF’s 2030 Roadmap. It’s about long-term investment, not short-term sugar hits. Get the policy right and farmers will do the rest.”
The submission outlines 20 priority areas across supply chains, sustainability, workforce development, innovation and tax settings, aimed at strengthening the sector’s long-term viability.
Among the key funding requests is $4 billion to reinstate the Roads of Strategic Importance program, targeting freight routes that the NFF says are limiting productivity and posing safety risks for regional communities.
The federation is also seeking $100 million to support market access initiatives, arguing that growing global trade uncertainty makes diversification and productivity gains increasingly important for Australian exporters.
Other priorities include $20 million for emissions reduction initiatives, including the development of Australian Carbon Credit Units, methane-reducing feed technologies and whole-of-farm emissions reduction practices.
Workforce measures feature prominently, with a $3 million investment proposed to support an agricultural trade apprenticeship program aimed at building a skilled and professional farm workforce, alongside $1 million to investigate the Federal Government’s role in facilitating succession planning and intergenerational change on family farms.
Biosecurity funding of $50 million is also sought to implement the National Biosecurity Strategy and Action Plan, while a further $50 million is proposed for a national, industry-led approach to improving farmer wellbeing and preventing suicide.
Mr McIntyre said the upcoming Budget presents an opportunity for the Federal Government to back a strong and confident agricultural sector.
“These are sharp, targeted investments that deliver benefits well beyond the farm gate,” he said.
“With the right support, agriculture can keep growing Australia’s economy, strengthening regional communities and safeguarding our food security.
“Our message to Government is simple: invest in Australian agriculture, and you invest in Australia’s future.”
The NFF’s full Pre-Budget Submission is available here.
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