Media Releases
VFF calls on government to stump up for major energy transition reset
Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) President Brett Hosking has slammed the current rollout of energy projects, warning that a multi-billion dollar show of good faith may now be the only way to reset and move forward. “Right now, farmers and agricultural land…
Animal health and biosecurity boost following project extension
The Victorian Farmers Federation’s (VFF) Stock Sense project will continue to work with Victorian livestock producers and strengthen the state’s biosecurity preparedness following an extension of project funding. The total $1.660 million dollar project extension consists of a three-year agreement…
RIC certainty welcome, but more support needed
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has 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…
VicGrid Bill passes, but fails rural communities
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has 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…
VFF slams VicGrid power play
The Victorian Federation (VFF) has written to state MPs 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…
Farmer frustration highlighted in inaugural farmer 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…
Lactalis purchase could spell the end for iconic dairy brands
The 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…
Plan ‘to keep the lights on’ still leaves farmers in the dark
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says the State Government’s new Victorian Transmission Plan looks more like a roadmap for developers than a fair deal for regional communities. VFF President Brett Hosking said many farmers believe in deep, economy wide emission…
Proposed government job cuts could leave farmers vulnerable
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is concerned proposed staff reductions to key Victorian Government departments could leave Victoria’s $20 billion dollar agriculture industry vulnerable to the risks posed by devastating pests and biosecurity threats. VFF President Brett Hosking said the…
Support must be expanded state-wide as drought lingers
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says Victoria’s record-breaking drought is far from over and 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…
Key water infrastructure investment urged to prevent farmers from running dry
The Victorian Farmers (VFF) is 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…
Freight Plan key to ag sector’s success
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the release of the Victorian Government’s Victorian Freight Plan 2025-30 , describing it as a positive step toward strengthening the freight network and delivering improved outcomes for Victorian agriculture. VFF President Brett Hosking said the VFF…