Ag groups welcomes Bridget McKenzie, new Minister for Agriculture

Vivien Lin

The appointment of Nationals Deputy Leader Bridget McKenzie to the position of Minister for Agriculture in the new Morrison government has been widely welcomed by various agricultural industry groups.

The first female to hold the agriculture portfolio in the Commonwealth’s history, Minister McKenzie’s appointment has been welcomed by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) , Farmers for Climate Action (FCA) and the Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC) , among others.

“Women remain underrepresented in leadership roles in our industry,” says NFF President Fiona Simson, the first female President of the organisation. “The significance of having a female in agriculture’s top job can’t be overstated.”

Industry bodies have acknowledged Minister McKenzie’s experience with and knowledge of the agriculture industry, which she aims to help grow into a $100 billion sector.

“Minister McKenzie has long been a passionate advocate for our food producers, Australia’s regions, public health, active living and nutrition; and her professionalism and competency in dealing with our industry and our issues is warmly welcomed,” says Don Mackay, Independent Chair of RMAC.

“Senator McKenzie has an in-depth understanding of the challenges, and also the phenomenal opportunities, before our regions and the policies and investments agriculture needs to reach its potential,” Ms Simson says.

The industry has also thanked outgoing Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud who held the portfolio for 16 months.

“Under Minister Littleproud’s leadership, bipartisan support for the Murray Darling Basin Plan prevailed, $1 per litre milk came to an end and significant improvements were made to the regulations governing the export of live sheep to the Middle East,” says Ms Simson.

Minister Littleproud will retain the Water Resources portfolio and has assumed new responsibility for Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency Management.

“We are pleased his service to Australia’s regions will continue with his new portfolios,” says Mr Mackay.

The new Cabinet will be sworn in on Wednesday in Canberra.



NEWS
June 10, 2026
StockLive runs weekly online commercial sales for cattle and sheep — giving agents, producers and buyers a simpler, more transparent way to trade livestock nationally.
June 10, 2026
YaraRega helps macadamia growers improve nutrient efficiency and operational flexibility through fertigation or dry application, supporting consistent tree performance, productivity, and seasonal nutrient management 
By BioFlora June 10, 2026
The global agricultural landscape is currently weathering a perfect storm. With ongoing conflict in the Middle East and instability involving major trade routes, the supply chain for traditional synthetic fertilisers has been pushed to the brink.  For Australian farmers, this isn’t just a headline, it’s a direct hit to the bottom line, with skyrocketing costs and looming shortages threatening the next harvest.
May 27, 2026
The U10 Pro Range redefines what a top‑tier full‑size UTV can be, launching a bold new era for the UFORCE family — now offered in three distinct models
May 7, 2026
Australian farmers are facing overwhelming pressure. They shouldn’t have to face this alone.
April 28, 2026
Family owned company Australian Farm and Fencing, located in Wagga Wagga NSW, is on a mission to help more and more Australian farmers recognise what is widely considered the world's best soil restorative or premium organic fertiliser: vermicast.
Show More