General News
22 April, 2026
New ministers welcomed
THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has welcomed the appointment of Victoria’s newest government ministers.
The VFF extended a warm welcome to all new ministers, with a particular emphasis on Michaela Settle as Victoria’s new Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development and Harriet Shing as Minister for Water.
VFF president Brett Hosking said the VFF was eager to hit the ground running and work with the new ministers to support Victoria’s agricultural sector.
“Our agriculture sector is one of the cornerstones of the Victorian economy and the lifeblood our of regional communities,” he said.
“We welcome Minister Michaela Settle and Minister Harriet Shing into their portfolios and look forward to engaging closely on the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
The VFF extended thanks on behalf of members to outgoing Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence and Minister for Water Gayle Tierney for their service and commitment to the sector.
“Minister Spence and Minister Tierney have always been accessible to discuss the VFF’s priorities,” Mr Hosking said.
“They have worked to navigate a range of complex issues that have been important for Victorian farmers and regional communities and I wish them all the best.”
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With a Victorian state election in November, this year is set to be a pivotal year for agriculture, water policy and regional development.
“It’s set to be a future-shaping year with November’s election just around the corner and we’ll waste no time getting to work with Minister Settle and Minister Shing and the full new ministerial lineup on behalf our Victorian farmers,” Mr Hosking said.
“Farmers are facing ongoing pressures at almost every turn.
We need strong leadership and a future-focussed view and plan to ensure our industry can continue to grow and prosper.
“Our message to all sides of government is simple.
“Farmers and our regions matter and we look forward to working together to deliver real outcomes for our sector.”