Federated Farmers has launched a nationwide petition calling on the Government to urgently change KiwiSaver rules to allow young farmers to use their savings for buying their first herd, flock, farm, or home.
The organisation says the current regulations are ill-suited to rural realities and block aspiring farmers from building equity and entering the industry.
Despite a 2023 campaign promise from then-Agriculture spokesperson Todd McClay to change the rules under a National-led Government, Federated Farmers says progress has stalled.
With Fieldays approaching, the group hopes to pressure politicians to act, arguing that if KiwiSaver funds can be invested in global corporations, they should also be allowed to support the next generation of New Zealand farmers.
Supporters are urged to sign the petition here, or visit their stand at Mystery Creek.
Hope it helps our food source?.., 😀