Supply chain critical to deliver food strategy

FEDERAL government plans to boost food security heighten the need for an effective supply chain, industry bodies say.

The government this week unveiled its discussion paper Feeding Australia: A National Food Security Strategy.

The government says it has committed $3.5 million over two years in the 2025–26 Budget to develop the strategy, building upon input from farmers and fishers, industry and the community to “boost the productivity, resilience and security of our food system”.

President of the National Farmers Federation David Jochinke said the now was the time to “put the microscope over our entire supply chain system to identify vulnerabilities and find ways to safeguard our system”.

“The risks are real and rising, from global tensions and protectionist agendas to climate change and workforce shortages,” Mr Jochinke said.

Mr Jochinke said while the NFF recognised the government would want to take a wide view of food security, it was imperative key drivers, such as the stability of critical inputs, farm productivity and efficient supply chains, remain at the heart of the strategy.

“The strategy must also address one of the farm sector’s greatest vulnerabilities – its reliance on imported inputs,” he said.

“Australian farmers rely heavily on imported fuel, fertiliser and chemicals. If the tap is turned off, it will seriously cripple our ability to grow food and fibre.”

Mr Jochinke secure supply chains were crucial for agriculture to achieve its potential.

“Australian agriculture has the potential to be a $100 billion industry by 2030, but we need secure supply chains and strategic investment to get there,” Mr Jochinke said.

“The NFF will carefully evaluate the discussion paper and provide detailed input to ensure this strategy addresses the real risks facing farmers and agriculture.”

Chief executive of the Victorian Transport Association, Peter Anderson, said the food security strategy “rightly underscores the need for continuity and resilience across our national food supply chains”.

“Logistics is the lifeblood of these systems—without strong, coordinated freight and transport operations, the strategy cannot succeed,” Mr Anderson said.

“Climate change, economic shocks, biosecurity threats, geopolitical instability, and supply chain disruptions all present real and growing threats to our ability to deliver food reliably and efficiently.

“These challenges demand a proactive, well-supported freight sector that can adapt and respond quickly.”

Mr Anderson said the VTA continued to lead advocacy efforts at both the Victorian and federal levels, “pushing for investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and policy reform to strengthen the freight and logistics industry”.

GrainGrowers chief executive Shona Gawel said the release of the discussion paper was a positive move that would help boost the security of Australian agriculture.

“The decision to move ahead with the development of the strategy reinforces the industry position that resilient and diversified supply chains are essential for feeding the nation and our neighbouring regions as well as dealing with global shocks,” Ms Gawel said.

“While Australia is a large net exporter of grain, the heavy reliance on imported farm inputs such as diesel and urea exposes the fragile nature of maintaining our national food security.”