Media Release: Reappointment of NFF President

The Australian Government welcomes the re-appointment of Fiona Simson as President of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF).

The Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Senator Anne Ruston, said it meant Ms Simson would continue to deliver for Australian farmers.

“Ms Simson has made an outstanding contribution to our $60 billion agriculture sector over the past year, and I look forward to continuing to work with her in the role,” Minister Ruston said.

“Rural women have always played an integral role in Australian agriculture and rural communities, and she has been an inspiration as the first female President in the NFF’s 37-year history.

“She has great practical knowledge as a farmer herself, along with considerable experience representing farmers, and will continue to be an asset to our sector.”

The Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Luke Hartsuyker, said Ms Simson is well-respected in the agriculture sector and a mixed farmer and grazier on the Liverpool Plains.

“Ms Simson has been a long term advocate and leader of Australian agriculture,” Minister Hartsuyker said.

“She will continue to do an excellent job leading our national peak farming body.

“We also welcome the appointment of three new Board Directors to the NFF—Robyn Bryant, Mark King and Derek Schoen—who bring an important mix of farming and industry representative experience to the organisation.”

Fast Facts:

Fiona Simson

• First woman elected as NFF President.
• President of NSW Farmers’ Federation from 2011 to 2015—first woman in the role.