Hosking Steps Down, Eyes State Politics

0:00This is Corey with Sydney News Today, powered by the Daily News Now. Brett Hosking, president of the Victorian Farmers Federation, announced this week that he will step down in June and won't seek re-election at there. Annual conference in Ballarat, the move has sparked rumors he might jump into state politics, possibly targeting the Murray plaincy. Hosking took the top job in December 2024, following years of internal drama at the group. A farmer from Kwambatuk near Swanhill, he has held leadership roles there for over a decade and says it's time to pass the baton after steadying the organization. During his 15 months in charge, he guided farmers through brutal drought on a government task force, then early year bushfires that scorched one, 150,000 hectares of farmland. He also pushed back hard against the state's emergency services levy and big transmission projects hitting rural areas. Meanwhile, insiders say Hosking is a top pick to replace retiring nationals MP Peter

1:00Walsh in Murray Plains. He admits talks have happened but keeps options open, with party members expecting a pre-selection battle against the local councilor. The federation now searches for its next leader, as nominations close by, late March, with a state election on the horizon. Chief executive Charlie Thomas notes membership is climbing again, and they're gearing up to champion farmers on key issues. A message from our sponsor supports today's story. Soley Pillow is a pillow with built-in headphones, lay back, press play, and disappear into what you're listening to, S-O-L-I-SolyPillow.com