VFF president Brett Hosking said he was excited to welcome the wealth of experience and knowledge Mr Thomas will bring to the role from Monday, July 7.
“Charlie’s experience and reputation representing farmers and rural Australians over the past 15 years is second to none,” Mr Hosking said.
“He’s known for his work improving member-based organisations through strategic partnerships, successful advocacy and genuine engagement with key stakeholders.
“With prolonged drought, a looming state election and a number of critical issues facing farmers, having Charlie’s expertise, guidance and contacts will be invaluable in helping to represent the interests of farmers and regional Victorians.”
Mr Thomas said it was an honour to join the VFF, “an organisation that has been the respected voice of Victorian farmers since 1979”.
“Many farmers are doing it tough at the moment and my focus will be demonstrating a strong value proposition for members that enables the VFF to continue to drive positive change for Victorian farmers and our regional communities,” he said.
“Our farmers and regional communities deserve to be heard. From day one, I’m looking forward to meeting key stakeholders and the government to help ensure farming communities are a priority and a legitimate focus for decision makers”
Mr Thomas is currently the NFF’s deputy chief executive officer.
Raised on a farm near Condobolin in NSW, his early experiences shaped his deep commitment to rural communities and Australia’s farm sector.
Before joining the NFF, Mr Thomas held senior positions in policy and corporate affairs at the Property Council of Australia and the NSW Farmers’ Association — focusing on sustainability, land use and regulatory reform.
At the NFF, Mr Thomas has spearheaded the sector’s national advocacy strategy and overseen substantial growth in the NFF’s commercial operations.
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