The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has wrapped up a busy year advocating for the interests of Queensland’s agricultural sector. In the lead-up to the state election and its aftermath, QFF engaged with the new government, holding critical discussions with the Premier, Ministers, and departmental staff on issues such as biosecurity, land use planning, workforce shortages, disaster preparedness, and water and energy pricing.
QFF’s advocacy efforts, in collaboration with peak bodies like the National Farmers’ Federation and the Local Government Association of Queensland, focused on improving the Bruce Highway, maintaining the 88-day Working Holiday Maker visa program, and prioritizing biosecurity as a state-wide concern.
New partnerships with RELA, a renewable energy platform for landowners, and the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise (TSBE) aim to offer farmers opportunities to diversify income and access emerging markets while promoting sustainable practices.
QFF hosted several events throughout the year to celebrate Queensland agriculture and foster collaboration. The annual EKKA Celebration of Queensland Agriculture and the sold-out National Agriculture Day Breakfast featured key speakers, including the new Minister for Agriculture, Tony Perrett, who emphasized a whole-of-government approach to supporting farmers.
The “Queenslanders Can’t Live Without” campaign highlighted the essential role of local farmers in everyday life, while the ‘Australia 2025’ breakfast with Bernard Salt explored future trends shaping agriculture, regional communities, and the broader economy.
QFF looks forward to continuing its work with farmers, industry leaders, and government to secure a prosperous future for Queensland agriculture. As the year closes, QFF extends best wishes for a safe and merry Christmas and looks ahead to 2025 with optimism.