Food
The food industry is integral to Australia’s economic and social prosperity. In 2006-07, it accounted for 20 per cent of manufacturing sales and services income and in 2007-08 it provided jobs for 206,000 Australians. The overwhelming majority of food sold in Australia is grown and supplied by Australian farmers. We are able to export almost two-thirds of our agricultural produce, while ensuring around 97 per cent of the fresh fruit and vegetables sold in supermarkets is grown and supplied locally.
In 2007-08, Australia exported $23 billion worth of food compared to food imports in that same year of $9 billion, despite the effects of drought. A substantial proportion of these food imports comprised beverages, including specialty branded spirits, and some highly processed foods that are not produced in Australia.
A comprehensive analysis of the Australian food industry is provided in the department’s annual Australian Food Statistics series.
What we do
DAFF has responsibility within the Australian Government for food industry policy and programs that support a globally competitive and sustainable Australian food industry. Key areas of focus include fostering innovation, food regulation reform, improving the environmental performance of the industry and expanding market access. We also support the development of an Australian standard for organic and biodynamic produce.
The department has finalised three new Australian Government grant programs, totaling $40 million, to help boost the productivity, profitability and global competiveness of Australian food businesses. Guidelines have been released for:
- Regional Food Producers Innovation and Productivity Program
- Promoting Australian Produce
- Promoting Australian Produce (Major Events)
The department is working with other Australian Government agencies such as the Department of Health and Ageing and Food Standards Australia New Zealand, as well as state and territory governments, to simplify and streamline food regulation and labelling. Together our aim is to ensure a more efficient and effective domestic food regulatory system that protects public health and safety while recognising the need for an internationally competitive food industry.
DAFF also works with industry to address potential gaps or vulnerabilities in the food chain safety and security system, and is committed to ensuring that Australian interests are considered in the development of international food standards.
For information on importing and exporting foodstuffs, please visit Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service.
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