PRODUCTIVITY and the need to raise it has emerged as a central theme at the Australian Grains Industry Conference in Melbourne.
Federal agriculture minister Julie Collins said boosting productivity was crucial to boosting farm profitability and ensuring Australia remained “one of the most food secure nations in the world”.
“Our government is already acting on a productivity agenda in agriculture, including a review of the Wheat Port Code to ensure it is fit for purpose and increases productivity through the removal of ‘red tape’,” Ms Collins said.
“Our government will be providing its response soon.”
Grain Trade Australia chair Andrew Goyder said greater productivity would be crucial as Australia sought to leverage growing markets in China and Southeast Asia.
“GTA remains committed to facilitating trade and we are working hard to support a strong, sustainable and competitive grain supply chain,” Mr Goyder said.
“It is pleasing to note the Australian government has identified productivity as a national priority and is developing a food storage strategy for the country,” he said.
The 2024-25 financial year delivered “strong results” with 64million tonnes of grain produced, the third highest crop on record, with exports of 42 million tonnes.
“Australia is helping to shape the conversation on food and nutritional security, trade reforms and non-tariff measures,” Mr Goyder said.
Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Adam Fennessy, said his department would be publishing a discussion paper on food security challenges and opportunities.
He noted the challenges of food supply in times of climate change with drought already having a significant impact on production areas in South Australia and Western Australia.
Mr Fennessy reiterated the message about market opportunities to the north of Australia and that this would be a focus of the current federal government.