The National Farmers Federation is calling on all Australian agriculture stakeholders to get involved in the development of the Blueprint for Australian Agriculture as it hits the road for the first in a series of forums around the country.

The first forum, taking place in Rockhampton, Queensland on November 29, will provide the first chance for those with an interest in, or involvement with agriculture to have their say about how to build a strong and sustainable future for the sector.

“The Blueprint for Australian Agriculture is about engaging all of Australia’s 140,000 farmers, as well as the agribusinesses, service providers and all of the communities that support, supply, rely or benefit from agriculture to determine where we, as an industry, want to be in the future,” NFF president Jock Laurie said.

“It’s about self-determination for all of agriculture as we face the many challenges and opportunities that are facing us now, but most importantly, over the coming decades.

“By 2050, the world will have to produce 70 percent more food to feed the global population and Australia has a critical role to play. At the same time, policy makers around the world are making decisions that have a direct impact on what we do and how we do it.”

“It is essential that Australian agriculture makes its voice heard, but in order to do that, we must know where we are going and how we are going to get there,” Mr Laurie said.

In order for the Blueprint for Australian Agriculture to achieve its potential, it was essential the sector took ownership of the process.

“If the Blueprint is to truly represent the entire sector, it’s vitally important that all levels and areas of agriculture and the wider supply chain contribute to its development.

“We want farmers and agribusiness owners, workers, families, our rural communities and all of the food and fibre supply chain, from farm to fork, to get involved. The series of roadshows that will be taking place around the country are one way for people to do that,” Mr Laurie said.

The Blueprint for Australian Agriculture is a joint initiative of the NFF and Westpac. The Rockhampton forum is supported by AgForce QLD and the Cattle Council of Australia.

• The first Blueprint forum will be held in the James Lawrence Pavilion at Rockhampton Showgrounds from 1pm on Tuesday, November 29. For information, or to register to attend, contact the NFF on 02 6269 5666.