The Parliamentary Friends of Soil provides a non-partisan forum for parliamentarians to meet and interact with soil scientists and researchers, policy-makers, farmers and land managers, industry representatives and stakeholder groups on matters relating to the health and maintenance of Australia’s soils.
The Group was initially established in 2020 under the 46th Parliament, and had 10 members including co-Chairs, the Hon Michael McCormack MP and the Hon Linda Burney MP.
The Group was re-established in 2022 under the 47th Australian Parliament, and has 27 members including co-Chairs, Ms Meryl Swanson MP and the Hon Michael McCormack MP.
Soil Science Australia has been a key supporter of the group since its inception and has been taking the lead in convening events for members, including information sessions to engage parliamentarians and their representatives in discussions on hot topics relevant to soil, as well as for celebratory events such as the World Soil Day networking breakfasts held annually at Parliament House.
For more information on Parliamentary Friendship Groups, visit the Parliament of Australia website.
