Farmers are the people who feed the nation with each Australian producer feeding on average 600 people each year, according to National Farmers Federation (NFF) statistics.

The NFF said the agriculture industry provides 1.6 million jobs and involves 85,681 agricultural businesses with an estimated value of agricultural operations of $40,000 or greater.

Farmers manage 48 per cent of the nation’s landmass and in the past decade primary industries have led the nation in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

NFF president Fiona Simson said:  “Our farm sector punches way above its weight in its contribution to the economy, our society and the environment.

“National Agriculture Day  is the perfect opportunity for all Australians to celebrate this contribution.”

 For more information about National Agriculture Day and local events go to www.agday.org.au