The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) is pleased to announce the launch of the Office of the Australian Agriculture Trade Diversification Representative, an exciting initiative to drive increased agricultural trade in new and existing markets.
Funded via the Government's Accessing New Markets Initiative, positioned at the centre of the Office will be the Australian Agriculture Trade Diversification Representative. This is a unique and highly visible role designed to promote new and expanded agricultural trade opportunities.
This is a senior-level appointment, with the successful candidate to be engaged by the NFF to undertake activities of a strategic and ambassadorial nature, leading and supporting trade diversification activities in both international and domestic markets.
NFF CEO Mike Guerin said this appointment will play a critical role in promoting agricultural exports in the face of volatility in global markets.
"Australian agriculture exports more than 70% of what it produces, with trade playing a critical role in the business success and resilience of not just primary producers, but the broader agri-value chain," Mr Guerin said.
"The NFF has a proud history of promoting trade, and we are excited to be working with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) to implement this important initiative."
Mr Geurin said the person stepping into the role will need to have deep industry experience and standing in order to provide a credible and consistent 'whole-of-sector' voice during trade promotion activities.
"We are looking for someone who has a demonstrable understanding of the agricultural industry both at the production level and in international trade environments, and who can use that experience to proactively promote Australian agricultural trade both overseas and at home.
"It may suit someone who has had a senior career in agriculture, business or trade and is looking to give back to the sector and I encourage those with an interest to consider applying."
Jay Meek, General Manager of Austrade's Trade Diversification Taskforce, said the work with the NFF will build on an already strong industry-government partnership in promoting agricultural trade.
"Close government and industry collaboration is key when working to diversify into new export markets, and to capitalise on growth opportunities in established markets," Mr Meek said.
"A central workstream of ANMI is the Trade Diversification Network, which supports national peak industry bodies to design and execute strategic activities to address the trade needs of their sectors.
"The NFF is a key member of the Network, and we look forward to working closely with the team."
About the Australian Agriculture Trade Diversification Representative
The Representative is a senior role which will undertake key activities, with the support of the NFF, including:
– Providing industry continuity, credibility and a 'whole-of-sector' voice across numerous trade missions and global engagements.
– Strategic input to the coordination of 'whole-of-sector' activities for agrifood Trade Diversification Network members.
– Trade mission intelligence and government feedback.
Consistent with the Trade Diversification Network aims, this is a short-term 'surge' project, concluding in June 2027, with approximately 75 days of direct engagement over the project life.
The role will require regular international and domestic travel.
Applicants will be assessed by a selection panel, with the final appointment to be made by the NFF.
