Two of the most influential farmer groups fighting for what they say is their future in agricultural food production across the Gunnedah basin, accused The Nationals and former Nationals leaders of casting them adrift.

The Mullaley Gas Pipeline Accord (MGPA) chairman David Quince and Caroona Coal Action Group's coal seam gas committee chairwoman Rosemary Nankivell agree their political lifeline has left farmers to defend their own lands and livelihoods.

Mr Quince believes The Nationals have sold them out.

Mrs Nankivell supports those views, saying the party was nowhere to be seen.

The claims were made after the strong community response to Wednesday's Food Security Forum.

Mr Quince said the Country Party that became The Nationals had now transformed into the "National Mining Party".

He described rural Australia as a political wilderness and attributed the desertion to the selfishness and personal interests of politicians.

"Governments are certainly not looking after the people, but rather the big end of town," Mr Quince said.

In response to forum speakers making allegations of rife political corruption and cover-ups within the mining industry, Mr Quince said there was indeed something going on.

Mrs Nankivell said the abandonment was an insult.

"Where are the Nationals ? who is protecting our grassroots?" she said.

Undeterred, farmers and residents are exploring other avenues of representation.

Mr Quince said rural Australia was looking towards parties like the Greens and the only other people now listening were the independents, including member for New England Tony Winsdor.

"The Greens have done wonders for the Freedom of Information Act and we will consider asking them for support," Mr Quince said.

Mrs Nankivell said the action groups had many things in common with the Greens, even though their economic policies might differ.

More than 600 people attended Wednesday's forum, despite the event being organised at short notice, Mr Quince said. "Rural Australia is going to band together," he said.