Media Releases
Rates rort hurting farmers: VFF reveals biggest farm rate rise offenders
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says evidence of some Victorian local government councils slugging huge rate rises on farmers shows the Victorian Government’s local government rate capping policy isn’t working. VFF President Brett Hosking said farmers continue to get the…
Government support urged as fallen stock concerns grow
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is urging the Victorian Government to step up and deliver immediate support to drought-affected livestock producers by introducing a targeted rebate scheme for fallen stock collection costs. The VFF has made the request as it…
New water projects welcomed by Victorian farmers
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the announcement by the Victorian and Federal Governments of new funding for water infrastructure and environmental projects in northern Victoria. The Commonwealth Government will provide $132 million for the Broken Reconfiguration Project, $1.38…
Water buyback halt needed to protect rural communities
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is backing the Victorian Government’s call to halt water buybacks, warning they pose a serious threat to rural communities and the future of Australian food production. VFF Water Council Chair Andrew Leahy said the practice…
VFF urges wild dog controls in the North West as drought ramps up pressure
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is calling on the Victorian Government to urgently strengthen wild dog management programs, particularly in light of the mounting impact seen in North-West Victoria and where non-lethal controls have failed to protect livestock. VFF Vice-President…
Streamlined permits and fast-tracked fodder to benefit drought-hit farmers
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement of a streamlined permit system for kangaroo management and fodder deliveries and an expanded road train network in South West Victoria. VFF President Brett Hosking said the announcement follows…
VFF condemns $63 million Commonwealth water buy as reckless and damaging to farmers
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has slammed the Federal Government for paying a staggering premium of $1,000 per megalitre above the seasonal average in its recent purchase of Goulburn water, calling it a reckless move that distorts the market and…
New report warns dairy industry faces devastating impacts from Basin Plan
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says a Ricardo report commissioned by Dairy Australia raises serious concerns over the future of the dairy industry, with water buybacks potentially leading to a further 270 million litre decline in milk production. The report…
VFF appoints Charlie Thomas as new Chief Executive Officer
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) is pleased to announce Charlie Thomas has been appointed as the organisation’s next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after an extensive recruitment process. VFF President Brett Hosking said he is excited to welcome the wealth of…
Government drought response a welcome first step, but work to be done
The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement of an expanded drought assistance package and the 12-month pause on Emergency Services Levy (ESL) increases for primary producers. VFF President Brett Hosking said it represents a step in…
Dairy farmers disappointed with opening milk prices
The United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) has expressed disappointment in Fonterra’s opening milk price of $8.60/kgMS for the 2025–26 season, saying it falls short of what is needed to sustain Victorian dairy farmers through one of the toughest periods in…
VFF unveils targeted drought framework to support farmers and rural communities
Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) President Brett Hosking has today unveiled a comprehensive and scalable drought response framework designed to deliver timely, targeted support to farmers and regional communities battling prolonged dry conditions. “Our farmers are doing it tough. With rainfall…