[Farm] Videos
Transcript;
Moderator: Mr. Chairman, we have another question online from Craig Caulfield. Seven years on from the Banking Royal Commission, a key recommendation from Commissioner Hayne has not been enacted. A national scheme for farm debt mediation would be a win-win for both banks and farmers, simplifying muddy and complex laws differing between states. Will the Chair and the CEO lobby to undertake to genuinely introduce a national farm debt mediation scheme via the ABA? Do you agree our farmers need to be respected, and form a growth opportunity for Westpac to pick up some turf from NAB and CBA?
Anthony Miller: I certainly agree with you that the agricultural sector, the farming community, is a tremendous opportunity, and we are looking to grow. I think our growth in the loan book in the agricultural sector last year was in the order of 22%, so we are very focused on what we can do there. In terms of that legacy outcome from the Hayne Royal Commission, I will take that on notice. What we’re very focused on is making sure that we partner really well with the farming customers that we have and working with them to make sure that their financing structure is such that it’s sustainable through the cycle and through particular challenges like drought and other that gets in the way.
So, I think we’ve got that right, and I think what you’re seeing in the marketplace in terms of how active and competitive it is in the agricultural sector, that actually it is right and we are getting the balance right as an industry. I will take on notice that question around farm debt mediation and where we are as an industry post the Royal Commission.
Steven Gregg: I think it is important to note that you rightly say it should be done via the ABA, so why don’t we touch base through that forum? Thank you.
This is a recording of a webinar held by Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith on Wednesday 5 February 2025. It provides an overview of the farm debt mediation process.
Did you know that creditors can’t pursue a farm debt in arrears until they’ve satisfied the Victorian Small Business Commissioner that they’ve mediated, or attempted to mediate, in good faith with the farmer in arrears?
This protection is legislated in the Farm Debt Mediation Act 2011, which provides farmers with the right to mediate farm debt.
Mediation provides an equitable opportunity for farmers and creditors to sit down together and develop a workable solution to resolve farm debt disputes.
Watch this video to learn more about what to expect during the Farm Business Debt Mediation process.
Watch this video to learn more about what to expect during the Farm Business Debt Mediation process.
Farm Debt mediation on a nationally consistent basis was a recommendation from Commissioner Hayne.
LNP and Labor have both squibbed introducing it.
Banks sprout about their good intentions- here’s a chance for a bank to take a lead.
Suncorp clearly not interested in genuinely supporting farmers
