NSW Farmers has thanked the Coalition for answering its calls to commit to a new initiative to assist first farm buyers.
On Wednesday the Coalition announced a Plan for Agriculture that included a promise to develop a dedicated financial scheme to support first farm buyers.
NSW Young Farmers' Council Chair Martin Murray said the pledge had come as welcome news to the state's peak farm body, which had been calling for a first farm buyer scheme among other initiatives to support young farmers feeling the crunch like never before.
"The average age of a new farmer is now 45 years old, and that's because young farmers simply cannot afford to get in the game," Mr Murray said.
"Farmland prices are sky high - as are the charges that come with it - and there's a real risk that the next generation will not be able to purchase the land they need to feed or clothe our future.
"Something has to give, and interest rate cuts will not be enough for our young farmers to break into the business of food or fibre anytime soon."
Mr Murray said the Federal Labor Government must match this commitment and make future farmers a bipartisan priority.
"First home buyers get support and so it's only fair that the same is available to those buying their first farm too," Mr Murray said.
"Farms are homes, but importantly, they're also businesses that feed and clothe the world.
"Our future depends on farmers - but we won't have any left if they can't get their foot in the door of some farmland, and fast."
