The Federal Labor Government has scrapped the National Soils Advocate and cut funding to programs that previously had bipartisan support. 

Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud has said that the decision was disappointing and it showed Labor was turning its back on agriculture, with National Soils Advocate, the Hon Penelope Wensley AC, having now finished her term. 

“Once again, Labor is cutting corners and costs when it comes to soils. There is no detail on who or what will replace the National Soils Advocate, even though the Government has had nearly 18 months to plan and this is a crucial position.” 

The former Coalition Government set up the National Soil Strategy back in May 2021 and committed $196.9 million. 

“We invested in soils because we know soils are imperative for the environment, the economy and our food security and costs. The strategy was to prioritise soil health, empower soil innovation and stewards, and strengthen soil knowledge and capability.”

Federal Member Michael McCormack is urging farmers and families in the Central West to have their say on Labor’s fresh food tax. The new tax is set at a rate equivalent of 10 per cent of the 2020-21 industry-led levies. Consultation has now opened into the Sustainable Funding to Strengthen Biosecurity Budget measures. 

Mr McCormack said “Farmers throughout the Central West will likely be slugged by this new tax, which comes into effect on July 1, 2024,” Mr McCormack said. 

“The new tax on farmers will inevitably be passed on to consumers, meaning even higher grocery bills for Riverina and Central West residents already suffering from higher cost-of-living pressures. 

“Those who are concerned about this potential impost on their livelihoods to register on the website and have your say.” 

For more information go to http://www.haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-funding 

The Department of Planning and Environment is launching its first survey on domestic and stock rights to get a clearer snapshot of how water extracted under these rights is being used, and whether any changes are needed to improve the way it’s regulated or managed. 

“The more we know about how water is being taken and used under these rights, the better we can manage it, that’s why I encourage all water users to fill out this survey,” Executive Director Strategy and Policy Kaia Hodge said. 

“Understanding how people use their basic water rights for domestic and stock purposes helps us to effectively manage water across NSW. This can have flow on benefits such as boosting drought resilience and creating healthier river systems. 

“We want to hear about how landholders are using their domestic and stock rights and if they, or other people have any concerns around the current approach to regulation and management.” 

In parallel with the survey, the Department is offering to hold meetings with stakeholder 

groups and organisations to hear directly about the experiences of these water users. “We are using the current engagement with domestic and stock water users to remind them of the requirements under the Water Management Act 2000,” Ms Hodge said. 

“When water users understand their rights, they can be confident they are taking water within the rules. That’s a win for everyone who relies on water from rivers and aquifers.” 

People have until 21 November to complete the survey. To learn more about domestic and stock rights and complete the survey visit: https://water.dpie.nsw.gov.au/licensing-and-trade/basic-landholder-rights/domestic-and-stock-rights 

Sweeping paddocks of grain crops are a familiar sight across much of regional Australia, but how many stop to think that those crops end up in their sandwich or breakfast bowl?

In fact, the average Aussie wheat farmer produces enough grain to make 3 million loaves of bread and 2 million tins of Milo.

In the final week of a crusade to better connect consumers with where their food comes from – and to value that food – the NFF-led campaign under the Australians Farmers platform aims to connect those dots.

NFF President Fiona Simson, hoped the Australian Farmers campaign had opened people’s eyes to the work farmers invested into growing food sustainably.

“This week we’re putting the spotlight on a household staple – bread. It’s main ingredient, wheat, is also a staple in the farming world,” she said.

Australia produces 23 million tonnes of wheat each year. This is used in bread, pasta, pizza dough, cake, instant noodles, dumpling skins and even animal feed.

Bread is one of the most wasted foods in Australia, bread is too precious to waste, store it properly and learn what to do if it goes stale

During the Annual Conference this week, Oscar Pearse a Moree based cropper, has been elected to the NSW Farmers Board.

The father of three, who has deep family roots in the states North West, stated a sustainable future for farming was critical to feed families and protect the country. Mr Pearse explained that farmers are esteemed for safeguarding useful resources of soils, pastures, and key natural areas, yet regularly the financial returns aren’t there and expressed his hopes this will soon change.

“I’m honoured to be elected to the NSW Farmers Board and look forward to making a positive contribution to the future of our Association and our industry,” Mr Pearse said.

Helen Carrigan, retiring Board member and wool producer explained that she would be moving interstate to be closer to family. She thanked NSW Farmers members for their support and wished Mr Pearse all the best. 

Mrs Carrigan went on to say that it was a tremendous pleasure to work with NSW Farmers and although she will no longer be actively involved with the organisation, she will continue to be keenly interested in the Association’s work.

The Bureau of Meteorology and CSIRO have unveiled a new name for their digital information product ‘My Climate View’, along with useful updates to help more farmers make informed decisions now to build climate resilience for decades to come. 

Previously known as the Climate Services for Agriculture online platform, My Climate View is unique in providing farmers with critical data to assess how climate trends, including changes to temperature and rainfall, might impact their business for specific commodities and date ranges in their location, to a 5 km2 resolution. 

My Climate View has been updated with: The Australian Government’s Climate Services for Agriculture program is a collaboration between the Bureau of Meteorology and Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO. 

Bureau of Meteorology Program Director, Climate Services for Agriculture, Elizabeth Johnston said My Climate View is a product that has been designed by farmers for farmers. 

“The Climate Services for Agriculture team has engaged extensively with Australia’s agricultural sector to understand what climate information and services the sector needs and how it is best presented,” Ms Johnston said. 

My Climate View is free to all users. CSAEnquiries@csiro.au. 

By making informed decisions about equipment and vehicles prior to beginning a task, we can create safer working environments in the agricultural industry.

According to the 2023 Safer Farms Report, 64% of fatalities on Australian farms in 2022 were attributed to farm vehicles or mobile farm machinery. Since 2001, nearly 30% of all on farm fatalities can be attributed to two vehicles: tractors and quad bikes.

Farmers rely on different vehicles for a wide range of tasks, each task demands a specific vehicle with the necessary features and capabilities. Choosing the right vehicle significantly reduces the risk of injuries and fatalities. To select the right vehicle:

Assess Job Requirements: Begin by assessing the specific needs and requirements of the task and consider factors such as load capacity, terrain conditions, and manoeuvrability. Matching the vehicle’s capabilities to the job requirements is crucial for optimal safety.

Consider Operator Comfort and Familiarity: A comfortable and familiar vehicle promotes operator confidence and reduces the likelihood of incidents. Ensure that all operators, including contractors, receive appropriate information and training to handle the chosen vehicle safely and efficiently.

Evaluate Safety Features: Prioritise purchasing vehicles equipped with safety features designed to protect operators. Features such as seat belts, roll bars, and enclosed cabs offer crucial protection in the event of a rollover. Don’t compromise on safety and never circumvent safety mechanisms when selecting vehicles.

Maintain and Inspect Regularly: Establish a regular maintenance and inspection schedule. Routine checks of brakes, lights, tyres, and other essential mechanisms ensure that the vehicle remains in prime working condition. Promptly address any repair needs to prevent potential hazards.

Promote Communication and Training: Encourage open communication among farm workers to share insights and experiences related to vehicle safety. Check operators have the necessary licences. Provide comprehensive training to all operators, emphasising safe operating procedures, load limits, and any specific considerations related to the chosen vehicles such as speed limits, age limits and required personal protective equipment (PPE).