Consultation open to help forge Australia’s food security future

The Albanese Labor Government is today kicking off the development of a new national food security strategy, with consultation opening on the Feeding Australia discussion paper.

Key priorities outlined in the discussion paper include resilient supply chains, productivity, innovation and economic growth, and competition which will help shape the scope of the Feeding Australia strategy, with submissions on the paper open until 24 September.

Supported by $3.5 million in the 2025-26 Budget, the government says progressing this election commitment will build on work the Albanese Labor Government has already undertaken to improve food security and the Australian food system.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins said Australia’s food system is a national asset and the country can’t afford to be complacent when it comes to protecting and strengthening Australia's food security.

“We have listened to farmers and the community who have called for government to work with industry to set out a vision for Australia’s food system, because we understand the importance of addressing underlying challenges facing our food security,” Minister Collins said.

“Ensuring we get the priorities of Feeding Australia right is incredibly important, which is why I encourage our farmers, producers, regional communities and other stakeholders in the food supply chain to provide their input into this discussion paper.”

The Government is also opening an expression of interest process to fill positions on the new National Food Council, which will advise government on the development of the strategy. Applications will be open until 10 September.

The skills-based council will be made up of members with considerable knowledge and experience from across our food system, ensuring Feeding Australia is a comprehensive plan for our nation’s future.

To have your say on the discussion paper to inform the strategy or to find out more about the expression of interest process for the new National Food Council, visit: agriculture.gov.au.