Startling new research has revealed that Australians have grown disconnected from where their food and fibre comes from, and are oblivious of the farm sector’s economic contribution.

The nation-wide polling commissioned by the National Farmers’ Federation in the lead up to tomorrow's National Agriculture Day, found that 83% of Australians would describe their connection with farming as ‘distant’ or ‘non-existent’.

President of the National Farmers’ Federation, Fiona Simson, said the figures were cause for alarm.

“We live in one of the most urbanised countries in the world, but that doesn’t mean food and fibre production should simply be ‘out of sight, out of mind’,” Ms Simson said.

“Agriculture is an essential ingredient in every meal on our plates, and every natural fibre on our backs.

“Farming is also a driving force of the Australian economy, generating 1.6 million jobs across the supply chain.”

The results come ahead of National Agriculture Day, November 21, a national initiative aimed at reconnecting all Australians with the story of agriculture.

As part of the poll, participants were presented with a list of six industries, and asked to nominate which they thought was Australia’s fastest growing.

“Only 4 percent of respondents correctly identified agriculture as our fastest growing sector,” Ms Simson said.

“The result highlights a big misconception: that agriculture is a thing of the past. The reality is it’s a critical piece of Australia’s economic future.

“In fact, we’re on track to be Australia’s next $100 billion industry, having reached a record $60 billion farm gate return last financial year.”

The problem, according to Ms Simson, is that people simply don’t know they have skin in the game.

“Despite the billions of dollars and all the jobs derived from agriculture, Australians assume this only benefits people in the bush.

“The reality is the bulk of jobs supported by the farm sector are in the city, in fields like retail, food service, logistics, finance and more.

“Farmers don’t just grow your calories, they grow your salaries,” Ms Simson said.

The National Farmers’ Federation has partnered with the Commonwealth Government, Coles and other partners to celebrate National Agriculture Day and to raise awareness of Australia’s farm sector.

Today's National Agriculture Day aims to start reconnecting all Australians with the story of agriculture.

“Our polling found that 57% of Australians have had no contact whatsoever with a farmer in the past year,” said Ms Simson, a farmer herself from the NSW Liverpool Plains.

“On National Agriculture Day we’re looking to fix that, by connecting every Australian with the story of agriculture and the farmers that make it happen.

“I’d strongly encourage all Australians to get behind AgDay. Visit the website, get the facts about where our food and fibre comes from and find out where you can join in an AgDay celebration near you,” Ms Simson said.

Australians from all walks of life are being urged to get involved today, as we celebrate our first National Agriculture & Related Industries Day (AgDay).

AgDay is a national day to celebrate the remarkable contribution of agriculture to Australia’s economy and society.

President of the National Farmers’ Federation, Fiona Simson, says it’s a celebration everyone can take part in.

“Agriculture touches the lives of every Australian, through the food we eat, the natural fibres we wear, and the economic prosperity we enjoy,” Ms Simson said.

National Agriculture Day comes on the back of recent research, which found that 83% of Australians would describe their connection with farming as ‘distant’ or ‘non-existent’.

“We live in one of the most urbanised countries in the world, but that doesn’t mean that food and fibre production should simply be ‘out of sight, out of mind’,” Ms Simson said.

“Farming is also a driving force of the Australian economy, generating 1.6 million jobs across the supply chain.

“It is also Australia’s fastest growing industry, up 23% past financial year. “We have an incredible story to tell, and that’s exactly what AgDay is all about.”

No matter where you are on AgDay, there are plenty of ways to join in the action.

“Events are happening right across the country, but if you can’t get to an event you can join in the celebration online.

“Join the conversation on social media, using the hashtag #AgDay, share pictures of the great farm produce you’re enjoying today, or even test your farming knowledge with the AgDay quiz!,” Ms Simson said.

If you’d like to get involved, the best place to start is agday.org.au. It’s packed with information and resources on what’s happening across Australia and online.

Watch the AgDay video

On this first National Agriculture Day, the National Farmers' Federations is telling the great story that is agriculture with a short video. Watch below as farmers including NFF President, Fiona Simson, a chef and a supermarket chief explain what agriculture means to them. If you're like us, and think the video is pretty neat, please share across your social media platforms tagging #AgDay.