VICTORIAN food and grocery manufacturing generates $9.23bn in output per year and is the biggest regional export industry in several areas in northern Victoria, according to a new report released by the Australian Food and Grocery Council.

The report said food and grocery manufacturing is the number one regional export industry in Bendigo, Indi, Mallee and Nichols, outpacing other sectors such as mining, forestry, financial services, construction and the public service.

Northern Victorian food and grocery processing is now the second largest contributor in terms of output and the eighth largest employer across the federal Victorian electorates of Mallee, Bendigo, Indi and Nicholls.

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AFGC CEO Tanya Barden said as the population continues to increase in northern Victoria, food and grocery processing will continue to provide important jobs growth and investment in the region.

“Food and grocery manufacturing in northern Victoria continues to invest, innovate and employ locals,” she said.

“The sector relies heavily on local supply chains, purchasing $3.36bn in goods and services from within the region.”

Ms Barden said Australians should be proud of their food manufacturing sector as a major contributor to the regional economy.

“Food and grocery manufacturing employers in northern Victoria range from major global companies like Fonterra in Stanhope, through to strong Australian brands like Beechworth Honey in Beechworth and smaller mum and dad operations,” she said.