Farmers deserve a fair go in Australia’s renewable energy future

As Australia races towards what seems like an inevitable renewable energy future, one voice cannot be ignored … it’s us farmers who feed our nation and work our vast landscapes.

We’re nearing the pointy end of the federal election campaign and the Victorian Farmers Federation has sent a clear message to both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton—transitioning to clean energy must not come at the cost of regional communities.

Farmers aren’t standing in the way of progress. In fact, many support the move to renewables. But that support does not mean it’s open slather in the face of these projects.

We won’t accept a system where multinational energy companies dictate terms to local landholders. There’s no doubt that frustration is growing amongst those whose livelihoods are impacted by sprawling energy and transmission projects that are often planned with little to no input from those most affected.

What we’re calling for is not controversial, I would say it’s completely reasonable. Proper consultation. Fair compensation. Respect for local voices. These are not nice to have, they are the foundation of a just and lasting energy transformation and a non-negotiable.

One key demand is that no Commonwealth funding be granted to developers who haven’t meaningfully engaged with landholders or adhered to a mandatory Land Access Code of Conduct. In other words: no engagement, no funding. Taxpayer dollars must come with strings attached that look after the people. In this case, it helps safeguard the rights and wellbeing of rural Australians.

Then there’s compensation for hosting transmission lines … it should be tax-free. These payments are not bonuses. They’re compensation for disrupted operations, lost productivity, and the visual and environmental footprint that farmers must endure long after construction is complete.

This federal election is about more than politics—it’s about shaping how Australia powers its future. And that future must be built with, not on, our regional communities.

As farmers, we’re not asking for special treatment, we’re asking for a fair go.

Brett Hosking is the President of the Victorian Farmers Federation.