Federated Farmers: Services help meet challenges

Federated Farmers has a suite of contracts which are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the dynamic nature of the farming sector.

The past year has been challenging for farmers with increasing amount of compliance requirements let alone droughts and, for dairy farmers, low payout to grapple with.

Federated Farmers understands the pressures at the farm gate better than most and we are regularly reviewing and renewing the services we provide to members, so they are better equipped to traverse the legal landscape and future-proof their businesses.

The Federation has a suite of affordable contracts and agreements focused primarily on three key sectors: beef & lamb, dairy and arable farming.

Simon Andrew, Federated Farmers Business Manager says: "The days of the handshake are over. Today's farmer really has to be clued up on industry and legal requirements, which means having approved contracts that are signed.

"This effectively means they know their obligations and are also aware of expectations whether they are employer or employee. It also helps both parties when negotiating contracts and gives them peace of mind."

Mr Andrew said the current volatile conditions the farming sector was experiencing was a good reason to have contracts in place. An El Nino summer would ultimately affect farm management, changing priorities around feed budgets and what was expected of staff.

For example, feed covers and milk production will be impacted on if the conditions become extremely dry.

"Farmers should look at existing contracts and consider if they have a Plan B and what that might be. If they don't they could find themselves in a minor crisis in terms of meeting contracts obligations and staff expectations.

Federated Farmers has refreshed employment agreements which now include a social media policy.

"Having a social media policy protects both the employee and employer from social media risk, while social media can empower farmers to better connect and share ideas.

"It also represents a risk if a farm worker posts a photo without context. This may damage the image of not only your farm business but the primary industries more broadly," Mr Andrew said.

Farmers needed to have an employment agreement for all staff. Not only was it a legal requirement but it also helped facilitate a positive work environment with amplified outcomes for your business.

"All our contracts are legally bound as they are drafted by lawyers. The contracts are easy to follow, readable and pragmatic reflecting the farmers' view and needs," Mr Andrew said.

Neil Filer, the Sharemilkers' Section Chairperson says those sharemilkers, contract milkers and farm managers looking for new positions for the 2015/16 season would do well to check all the clauses in their new contracts carefully.