GRAINCORP has joined the National Farmers' Federation as an associate member.
The east coast bulk handler is the fifth company or group to sign on since the national farm body opened up its ranks to agribusinesses last July.
NFF president David Crombie said the move, to be announced today, was the latest instalment in NFF's push for closer engagement with the supply chain beyond the farm gate.
"It can only strengthen our insight and involvement in the many issues that cut across modern agriculture and ultimately affect all farmers," Mr Crombie said.
GrainCorp's acting chief executive Ian Wilton said the business environment for farmers and agriculture as a whole affected GrainCorp's business.
GrainCorp hoped to bring a new perspective and contribute to debate on infrastructure, world trade reform, tax, regional development and employment and training, he said.
Associate members get one vote on the NFF members council but in total can't control more than 40 per cent of the vote. They pay an annual membership fee up to $200,000 depending on their sales.
