Government to develop national food security strategy

On 13 August, the federal government announced that it was developing a new national food security strategy. To inform the strategy, the government has released the ‘Feeding Australia’ discussion paper, which is now open for consultation.

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

In progressing this election commitment, supported by $3.5 million in the 2025–26 Budget, the government said it was building on work it had already undertaken to improve food security and the Australian food system.

All Australians will have the opportunity to contribute to Feeding Australia, including farmers and producers.

In its statement, the government emphasised that while Australia is a food-secure nation, serving domestic needs and international trade partners, and supported by strict food safety and biosecurity measures, the nation cannot become complacent.

“Our food system is a national asset, but we can’t afford to be complacent, which is why the Albanese Labor government is ensuring we protect and strengthen Australia’s food security,” said Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins.

“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,” she added.

“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.

“When our food and supply chains are secure, it can help reduce financial strain on households, ensures our farmers benefit from domestic and international trade, and that Australia is well positioned to support countries that rely on our world-class products.”

In addition to the 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 the food system, ensuring Feeding Australia is a comprehensive plan for the nation’s future.

To have your say on the discussion paper or to find out more about the expression of interest process for the new National Food Council, visit: www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/farm-food-drought/food/national-food-security-strategy.

Image credit: iStock.com/Jina Ihm