The constituents of New England will go to the polls on 2 December 2017, with former Agriculture Minister Joyce expected to reclaim the regional New South Wales seat and return to parliament next year.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull will act as Agriculture Minister in the interim, while Nigel Scullion will lead the National Party.

National Farmer’s Federation (NFF) president Fiona Simson said the portfolio of agriculture and water resources is of utmost national importance and one that requires stability and focus.

“The loss of Barnaby Joyce from the agriculture and water resources portfolio is regrettable as Australian agriculture has few stronger advocates than Mr Joyce,” Ms Simson said.

“Following the historic High Court decision, the National Farmers' Federation (NFF) will work proactively with the Prime Minister, Minister Fifield and Minister Chester as they step into acting roles in relevant portfolios,” she said.

The NFF said it was grateful to the Prime Minister for taking carriage of this important area personally.

“The latest national accounts confirmed that agriculture is Australia’s fastest growing industry; the sector has a goal to achieve a production value of $100 billion by 2030,” the NFF said in a statement.

“To reach this, we need to expand trade and market access; secure additional investment; improve regional Australia’s connectivity and embrace new technologies; find solutions to workforce shortages; solve Australia’s energy crisis; continue to build Australian agriculture’s brand and more,” it said.

“To continue to take advantage of the opportunities ahead we need strong, stable leadership.”