THE National Farmers' Federation has backed the weekend appointment of several Members of Parliament with experience in and knowledge of agriculture and regional issues to key cabinet positions.
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The NFF said the Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull reflected promise for greater representation for rural Australia.
The new Cabinet includes :
- Barnaby Joyce as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources;
- Steve Ciobo as Minister for Trade and Investment;
- Fiona Nash as Minister for Regional Development, Regional Communications and Rural Health;
- Darren Chester as Minister for Infrastructure and Transport;
- Josh Frydenberg as Minister for Resources, Energy and Northern Australia;
- Angus Taylor as Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation and;
- Senator Matt Canavan as Minister for Northern Australia.
NFF president Brent Finlay, said: "Today we have seen the elevation of MPs who have an understanding of agriculture, regional Australia and associated issues to portfolios which are critical to the ongoing success and growth of our industry."
"This also includes our Deputy Prime Minster, Barnaby Joyce, retaining his portfolio of Agriculture and Water Resources and newly appointed deputy leader of the Nationals, Fiona Nash taking on added responsibility in the areas of regional development and regional communities.
"Australian agriculture is entering a new growth phase and is likely to generate $1.2 trillion between now and 2030, while this year alone, agriculture is predicted to reap a record farm-gate return of $57.6 billion.
"We also welcome Member for Hume, Angus Taylor, as the Minister for Cities and Digital Transformation.
"Digital transformation is seen by the NFF as a key priority in agriculture, as evidenced by our Digital Platform, announced last December."
Mr Finlay said it was now crucial agriculture be one of the federal government's policy and economic priorities as Australia headed towards an election.
"The burgeoning prospects for growth in the sector places agriculture at the forefront of the national agenda," he said.
"We now look to government to provide a strong policy framework to underpin an innovative, productive and prosperous rural sector."