New inclusivity reform at TasFarmers

Tasmania's peak body for farmers is announcing new reforms to encourage greater inclusivity and representation on its boards and committees.

Mr Sauer said that at the heart of the TasFarmers advocacy is a model to allow members who produce food, fibre, pharmaceuticals and beverages to engage in policy setting and strategic direction without barriers.

The opportunity for a greater diversity of representation from the farming community to be involved with TasFarmers will be enhanced with the revamping of our committee structure and greater inclusivity.

"We (the board) are strongly committed to removing barriers to involvement with TasFarmers, an example is, ensuring that members who are primary caregivers can participate in in council or board meetings with the announcement of our inclusion statement," Mr Sauer said.

"This statement is part of a broader strategic effort to promote more representation across commodity committees, councils and the board, by creating a more supportive and accessible environment for all members.

"Ultimately our committees are made up of farmer members who feed policy to TasFarmers and to the board. This is about being flexible, inclusive, and contemporary, so we can support members who wish to contribute at every level.

"A key plank in our structure is that we will cover, for example, the cost of childcare for families and primary caregivers, removing barriers to participation and ensuring everyone can have a voice.

"Additional support will include, but is not limited to, virtual meeting attendance options, travel assistance, and modified meeting hours. We encourage interested members to get involved and be part of shaping the future of this important sector," he said.