June 21, 2024
Former National Farmers’ Federation president Fiona Simson has been elected as vice-president of the World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO).
Ms Simson was elected at the recent WFO General Assembly in Rome.
NFF president David Jochinke, who is in Rome for the event, said this was a significant moment for “Team Australia”.
It is believed Ms Simson is the first Australian representative to be elected at this level.
“This elevates the NFF’s voice at the table, ensuring Australian farmers will be heard in international conversations on global agricultural policy and how food and fibre are produced in Australia,” Mr Jochinke said.
“Issues such as climate change, deforestation, animal welfare and ag vet chemicals are influencing the policy agendas across the globe. These are all issues of critical concern to Australian farmers and we have to make sure global policymakers and markets understand them in the Australian context.
“The WFO’s growing influence with powerful bodies, such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation, World Trade Organisation and the United Nations, heightens the need for Australian representation.”
