Australia is a food secure nation. Publications such as this, which regularly examine the industry from producer to processor and beyond, help government and industry prepare for the future.The food industry is of tremendous importance to our economy.
Australian Food Statistics 2010–11 found that 1.68 million people work in the food industry—from farm and fisheries production through to food
and beverage manufacturers—representing 15 per cent of Australia’s employment.
The world economy recovered in 2010, but the recovery was muted in many developed OECD countries. However, growth in China and India
provided strong opportunities for the Australian food industry. While the value of our food imports increased slightly in 2010–11 to $10.6 billion,
Australia continues to feed the world, with exports growing by over 10 percent in 2010–11 to $27.1 billion.
Record breaking floods and cyclones impacted greatly on parts of the food chain in 2010–11. Many Australian families noticed the price of bananas
increase significantly. This usually cheap and staple fruit was acutely impacted after tropical cyclone Yasi in February 2011 severely damaged
sugar cane and fruit crops in northern Queensland.
Our country is diverse, which creates both challenges and opportunities for our agricultural sector. There was well above average rainfall in most
agricultural regions in Australia in 2010–11, while the wheat belt of Western Australia experienced dry conditions.
Australian farmers and producers are passionate about the food industry.
Their ability to manage the challenges of dramatic climate variability demonstrates flexibility and resilience. Against that backdrop, Australian
farm and fisheries food production increased by 17 per cent in 2010–11. With the global population continuing to grow, food security is an issue
important to Australians. This publication, alongside others, helps the government and industry to ensure Australia is food secure for the long term.
A well-considered approach to food policy requires accurate statistics, and this is particularly highlighted as the government develops a national
food plan. This plan will ensure the government’s policy settings are right for Australia over the short, medium and long term to help achieve our
vision of a sustainable, globally competitive food supply that supports access to nutritious and affordable food.
I look forward to Australian farmers and food producers leading the way in feeding the nation in 2012, as well as sustaining the vital agribusinesses that underpin our economy.
