Victoria’s peak farming body is calling on all major political parties to commit to stronger protections for agricultural land ahead of the state election, warning food security is at risk if current trends continue.

The VFF has released a 20‑point Farmland Protection Plan, arguing that competition from mining, renewable energy projects and urban expansion is eroding some of the nation’s most productive farmland.

VFF president Brett Hosking said farmers across regional Victoria were are at breaking point, with landholders often forced to negotiate individually against large corporations and government agencies.

“Victoria is home to Australia’s most productive farmland, yet we have weaker protections than NSW and Queensland, that must change,” Mr Hosking said.

“This is about creating a fair and balanced system, a framework that gives rural communities a voice, and recognises our land is a critical asset for every Victorian, not vacant space awaiting development.”

The plan is built on four pillars, including improved planning laws, guaranteed rights to farm, stronger rehabilitation requirements and fairer compensation for affected communities.

Key proposals include a statutory Farmland and Food Security Commissioner, a $200 million agriculture productivity fund and binding decommissioning rules for non‑permanent land uses such as renewables and mining.

The federation also wants Victoria to adopt stand-alone ‘Right to Farm’ legislation similar to laws in NSW and Queensland, arguing the state currently lags behind in farmland protection.

Mr Hosking said the election presented a critical opportunity to reset policy settings and ensure Victoria’s best farmland was protected for future generations.

To read the protection plan from the VFF, click here.

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Thursday, 17th January 2030

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