Ryan Maloney

Ryan Maloney

RIC certainty welcome, but more support needed

We’ve welcomed the Albanese Government’s announcement today of ongoing certainty for the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) beyond 2026, but says farmers urgently need more meaningful support in the face of record drought. VFF President Brett Hosking said while the move…

VicGrid Bill fails our rural communities

We’ve expressed deep disappointment at the passing of the VicGrid Bill through the Legislative Council, warning it grants sweeping powers to the government while doing little to protect farmers and regional communities. VFF President Brett Hosking said the legislation risks…

Help us stop VicGrid’s power play

Later today, the Victorian Legislative Council (Upper House) will begin debating the VicGrid Stage 2 Reform Bill. The vote is on a knife’s edge, and your voice could make all the difference. We need you to call or email a crossbench MLC…

VFF slams VicGrid power play

We’ve written to all State MPs, urging them to vote down the contentious VicGrid Amendment Bill that would pave the way for police-backed powers to force entry onto farms and slap landholders with fines of up to $12,100. VFF President…

Farmer frustration highlighted in VFF survey

Huge increases to the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund, crumbling regional roads, maintaining our biosecurity and forcing renewable energy infrastructure developments on communities topping the list of concerns in the Victorian Farmers Federation’s (VFF) inaugural State of the State: Victorian Farmer…

Iconic dairy products on the chopping block?

United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) says the future of some iconic Australian dairy brands could be in jeopardy following the confirmed purchase of Fonterra’s Australian dairy assets by French dairy giant Lactalis.   UDV President Bernie Free said the acquisition could…

State-wide support needed as drought lingers

Victoria’s record-breaking drought is far from over and the VFF is warning farmers are facing mounting pressures including soaring costs, depleted pastures and plummeting farm finances that could spell increased prices at the supermarket checkout. VFF President Brett Hosking said…

Water infrastructure needed to keep tap running

We’re calling for swift action to fund and complete key water infrastructure projects needed to secure the future of critical water supplies needed for rural communities and agricultural industries in times of drought. Central to the ask includes the completion…