This article first appeared in The Land newspaper on 15.10.26
By Rebecca Reardon, President NSW Farmers
Advocating for farmers has never been more complex, particularly in a political environment where many decision-makers have little firsthand understanding of agriculture.
That’s why a strong, united voice is more important than ever, particularly if we’re to realise our ambition of growing NSW agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.
At NSW Farmers, much of our advocacy happens away from the headlines, through meetings with ministers, parliamentarians, departmental officials and industry leaders, explaining the impact of proposed policies and pushing for practical solutions.
Central to this work are our committees and taskforces, bringing together farmers with the firsthand experience and expertise needed to develop policy positions and influence decision-makers.
With members confronting challenges ranging from firearms reform and land tax to native vegetation mapping, feral pests and renewable energy developments, their work has never been more important.
Meanwhile, our policy teams are working behind the scenes, examining legislation, preparing submissions and engaging directly with government to ensure farmers’ concerns are understood.
This is the ‘unseen advocacy’ that rarely attracts attention but is critical to achieving better outcomes.
Our branches also play a vital role. Supporting members fighting regional battles strengthens our advocacy locally and lends credibility to our efforts at a statewide level. But effective advocacy requires more than simply having a seat at the table.
Too often, governments treat consultation as a ‘tick-and-flick’ exercise, seeking feedback only after key decisions have effectively been made.
That’s not genuine consultation, and it risks further eroding farmers’ ability to get on with the business of farming.
We don’t expect government to agree with us on everything, but we do expect decision-makers to listen, understand the practical consequences of their policies and genuinely consider farmers’ views.
NSW Farmers will continue working across all sides of politics, backed by our committees, taskforces, branches and members, to ensure agriculture’s voice is heard.
Because meaningful consultation isn’t just about giving farmers a chance to speak. It’s about decision makers being prepared to listen.
