A repeal of the proposed phasing out live sheep exports by 2028 is on the NFF election wish list.

A REPEAL of the legislated ban on live sheep exports by sea and commit to the live cattle trade is among the key federal election priorities of the National Farmers Federation.

The federation today outlined its election priorities in a ‘Securing Australia’s farming future’ document.

New NFF chief executive, Troy Williams, said the organisation’s immediate priority is to ensure that agricultural issues are front and centre, not just during the campaign but long after the votes are counted.

“Farming isn’t just another sector of the economy. It’s the lifeblood of regional communities, a pillar of national prosperity, and essential to every Australian household,” he said.

In the document, the NFF says the Australian agricultural industry stands united in its opposition to the policy to phase out live sheep exports by sea.

“The policy does not accurately reflect community sentiment or Australia’s worldleading regulatory framework for animal welfare.

“The policy will have significant and farreaching adverse impacts on Australia’s standing as a reliable food security partner,” the NFF said.

The NFF said Australia’s farming sector contributes $88 billion to the economy and supports around 315,600 jobs.

Mr Williams said the NFF’s policy agenda is driven from the ground up, ensuring that farmers’ needs shape government decision-making.

“Our policies come directly from NFF members.

“It’s our grassroots farmer organisations that know firsthand what’s happening on the land,” he said.

“From workforce shortages and trade access to climate resilience and biosecurity, these aren’t abstract issues.

“They affect every farm, every town, and every family in rural Australia,” Mr Williams said.

Mr Williams said the NFF’s strength lies in its member farming organisations, and the key to success is leveraging their expertise and building their capacity to be part of the discussion for change.

“No one understands farming better than farmers themselves. Our job at the NFF is to make sure their voices are heard, respected, and acted upon,” Mr William said.

A significant focus for Mr Williams will be on empowering the NFF members to ensure they have the tools required to support the sector best.

“That means giving our member organisations the support they need to be effective advocates, ensuring that politicians and policymakers are engaging with those on the land who live and breathe agriculture every day,” he said.

“Every decision made in Canberra has an impact on the farm gate. We need policies that enable agriculture to thrive, not ones that tie farmers up in red tape or ignore the challenges they face,” Mr Williams said.