Rabobank's Rural Confidence Survey released this week shows confidence in Victoria's farm sector has rallied this quarter after dropping off at the end of 2019, and is now at its highest level in two years.
Strong commodity prices and recent rainfall across the state has many farmers taking a positive outlook into the next season, which sets us up well to respond to the threat of coronavirus.
Just as farmers are going into the year with confidence, so too should consumers have confidence that amidst the coronavirus induced chaos and confusion, Victorian farmers will be able to continue restocking empty supermarket shelves with high quality produce.
There is no question over our ability to continue feeding our nation and the world in these difficult times.
This in no way should understate the varied challenges that agriculture is already facing and the challenges that will arise as the coronavirus crisis evolves.
We already know restrictions on travel and people movement will have a clear impact on the ability of farmers to secure the much needed seasonal worker workforce.
And there are the attendant supply chain issues associated with transportation including road, air and freight.
Undoubtedly, certain sectors will need to brace for a short-term hit, especially those that are particularly exposed to consumer export markets in China.
But agriculture has proven time and time again to be able to withstand many of the economic shocks that often decimate other industries.
It is therefore critical that our rural communities and industries are not treated as an afterthought by governments as they clamber to contain the virus.
Continued investment in regional infrastructure and ongoing support to businesses battling the combined impacts of drought, bushfire, and now the coronavirus, will be vital.
That's why the Victorian Farmers Federation has already welcomed the Australian government's stimulus package for small business, and we will continue to work with governments in responding to the crisis and to secure the future of agriculture.
Undoubtedly, coronavirus will not only have an impact on the economic security of rural communities.
The sense of isolation is something that country people know all too well and not having community events like festivals, shows and field-days, will only add to that isolation.
So it is important, that as a farming community, we do what we can to look after one another.
Always remember - your health and the health of those around you is your priority.
- David Jochinke is the VFF president
