New agriculture minister must listen to rural needs: AgForce

Queensland rural lobby group AgForce says it is unsure who prime minister-elect Kevin Rudd will choose as federal agriculture minister, but have been satisfied with the party's opposition spokesman.

Kerry O'Brien has been the ALP's primary industries spokesman since late 2006.

AgForce chief executive officer Brett de Hayr says whoever takes on the portfolio, it is important they have the ability to listen to the needs of the rural sector.