New England local and former NFF President Fiona Simson has been elected as Vice President of the World Farmer’s Organisation.
Founded in 2011, the WFO is a relatively new organisation comprised of agricultural bodies from across the globe with membership organised into six regional constituencies: Europe, Asia, Oceania, Africa, Latin America and North America. The General Assembly is its highest decision-making body. The National Farmers Federation membership with the WFO is funded by the Australian Government.
The NFF nominated Ms Simson who was subsequently elected at the WFO General Assembly in Rome. She joins an elite list of Australians to take global leadership positions at the highest level in their respective fields of expertise.
President David Jochinke, who is in Rome at the event with NFF CEO Tony Mahar, said this was a significant moment.
“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 agvet 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 Organization, World Trade Organization and the United Nations, heightens the need for Australian representation.
“It’s why we are here at the WFO, and to have representation at a high level through Fiona, it gives Australian farmers a powerful platform to influence global ag policy.”
Ms Simson has previously served on the WFO’s women and youth committees, and in the past year has been the Oceania representative on the WFO Board.
“Farmers are at the forefront of the big issues facing the world, like climate change, food security and sustainability,” Ms Simson said.
“There are many competing voices on these issues, but it’s critical farmers present a united front and show global policy makers we can be part of the solution.”
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