General News
24 March, 2026
Dreary picture for farmers
AUSTRALIAN farmers are experiencing renewed cost and supply pressures as global events continue to affect prices and availability of essential farming inputs such as diesel fuel and fertiliser.
Recent developments in the Middle East have disrupted vital shipping routes and heightened volatility in international markets, contributing to rising fuel and agricultural input costs that flow through to farming operations across rural Australia.
“Farmers are worried about securing fertiliser in time for sowing, and with fuel shortages already emerging, there was growing concern about keeping essential farm operations running,” chief executive officer of Rural Aid, John Warlter, said.
The national charity support service for farmers, their families and rural communities has painted a grim picture as international impacts take hold.
Diesel is indispensable for modern farming, powering tractors, harvesters, irrigation systems and freight.
Farmers in several regions were already finding availability of diesel, particularly bulk supply for farm use, was constrained, creating operational challenges during critical seasonal periods.
“Elevated global crude prices, driven by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are contributing to ongoing price pressures at the pump and at bulk supply points,” Mr Warlter said.
“Diesel is the lifeblood of farm operations. Without reliable supply and predictable prices, sowing and harvest become much harder to plan and manage.”
Australia also relied heavily on imported fertiliser, including nitrogen and phosphate-based products.
Without sufficient fertiliser, crop yields can decline, reducing production and adding further pressure to food supply and grocery prices.
“The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, two of the world’s largest fertiliser producers, has already driven prices higher, and now, with the added pressure of the war against Iran, diesel and fertiliser costs have surged sharply, placing further strain on farmers across the country,” Mr Warlter said.
The Middle East exported around 45% of global fertiliser supply. Disruptions to production and shipping routes were driving renewed volatility in global fertiliser markets, increasing costs for farmers who rely on imported supply.
Rising fuel and fertiliser costs directly increased the cost of producing food and fibre, and these pressures ripple through the supply chain – from planting and harvesting to transport and processing – ultimately contributing to higher grocery prices for Australian households and adding pressure to household budgets.
Mr Warlter said the growing uncertainties placed not only financial strain on farming families but also emotional and mental health pressures.
“Rural communities, already reeling from a harsh summer of disasters, are now experiencing heightened stress and anxiety as they navigate unpredictable costs while planning for seasonal work and managing tight cash flow,” he said.
“Farmers are facing pressures that are largely outside their control – that can be very hard on individuals and families.
“We want farmers to know that support, both practical and emotional, is available.”
Any farmers in need of assistance are encouraged to contact Rural Aid by calling 1300 327 624 or visit www.ruralaid.org.au
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