About us

Our story

Farm Trade Australia was founded by David Matthews, a long-term farmer from the Wimmera region of Victoria, Australia. David and his family are passionate about farming and committed advocates for strong, thriving rural communities.

The idea for FTA grew from a deep concern about the growing social and economic pressures facing regional Australia. As farms consolidate and returns decline, less of the value created on-farm flows back to the farmers and the towns that support them. Over time, the farmers’ share of the “pie” has been shrinking - and without change, this trend will continue.

FTA’s philosophy is simple: return more of the value from agricultural production to the people who create it. By working collaboratively, FTA aims to strengthen the competitiveness of farm businesses and channel investment back into regional communities, building long-term resilience and prosperity.

David has previously led two ventures shaped by this same vision: The Wimmera Grain Company, a pulse processing and export business, and the Rupanyup / Minyip Community Bank, the first community-owned bank in Australia. Both initiatives have shown how commercial solutions can create powerful social impact.

Through Farm Trade Australia, this philosophy continues — driving practical, commercial initiatives that support farmers, strengthen regional economies, and help rural communities thrive.