National food supply chain review underway

The Federal Government has commissioned a National Food Supply Chain Assessment, as it responds to growing concerns over the impact of the Middle East conflict on Australia’s agricultural systems.

The review forms part of the National Food Security Strategy and will examine vulnerabilities across key supply chains.

It will initially focus on diesel availability before expanding to fertiliser and crop protection products.

The work will be led by industry expert Andrew Henderson through AgriFutures Australia, with an interim report due within one month and a final report by the end of the year.

In the meantime, the Government has moved to bolster supply by releasing fuel from national reserves and adjusting fuel standards.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins says the assessment will help strengthen resilience and ensure food production continues uninterrupted.

The National Farmers’ Federation has welcomed the review, but maintains that immediate, practical measures are still needed to address current supply and cost pressures facing farmers.