"Australian Year of the Farmer recognises what farmers do for all Australians,” Mr Breum said.

“Australia’s farmers should be recognised and celebrated: for feeding the nation, for leading the world in farming techniques and innovation, and for sustaining the vital agribusinesses that underpin our economy.

“Farmers are the providers of our nation.

"Every person who eats food wears a wool coat or who has timber in their house construction or sits at a wooden table is connected to farming.

"We encourage all Australians to reflect on the origins of the food they consume and the fibre and other products they use every day and to seek out and buy Australian produce wherever possible," he said.

As part of the Australian Year of the Farmer program, a range of events, initiatives and educational programs will be rolled out across the nation throughout 2012.

Highlights will include a nine-vehicle One Country Roadshow travelling more than 56,000kms to attend more than 400 events, an unprecedented Agricultural Innovation and Technology Expo as well as the most significant food event to be held in Australia, Food of Origin Extravaganza, to promote the quality and origin of Australian food products – from ‘wheat to meat’ and ‘paddock to plate’.

Education will be a strong focus, as will the many career opportunities available in the agribusiness sector.

A photo competition, a commemorative collector’s coin and stamps as well as a TV program and privileges card have all been planned as part of the celebration.

The Australian Year of the Farmer was launched on the shores of Sydney Harbour, on October 12.