According to figures from the National Farmer’s Federation (NFF), Australia’s food and beverage industry currently produces enough food for 75 million people. However, food security still faces growing challenges that demand a national strategy.
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed vulnerabilities in Australia’s food supply chains, showing how external shocks can disrupt production and delivery. Additionally, escalating geopolitical tensions, extreme weather, and rising costs have further highlighted the need for a coordinated approach to food security.
The NFF released a report titled Securing Australia’s Farming Future, detailing the importance of the upcoming election and what should be addressed to combat food insecurity going forward.
“The 2025 Federal Election comes at a critical moment for Australian agriculture and for every Australian family that relies on farmers for affordable food and fibre,” said David Jochinke, president of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF).
“Our sector stands at the intersection of major mega trends that will reshape farming and consumer prices for generations to come.”
Jochinke’s comments highlight the urgency of addressing the interconnected challenges facing the sector.
“The global trading environment is becoming more protectionist and uncertain, threatening the market access that underpins our $80 billion export industry,” said Jochinke.
Australia’s agricultural future hinges not only on domestic efforts but also on securing international trade relations.
Domestic pressures include competition for agricultural land, a strained workforce, and rising production costs. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) projects that by 2030, 360 million people could face food insecurity, making Australia’s role more critical. More than 30 per cent of Australian households already experience food insecurity, highlighting the urgency of addressing supply chain vulnerabilities.
The NFF’s advocacy for a National Food Plan aims to address these issues and ensure agricultural considerations are integrated into government policy. Meanwhile, the FAO’s 2023 inquiry into food security recommended a National Food Security Strategy to coordinate responses and maintain Australia’s capacity to feed its population and the world.
In line with this, the National Food Security Preparedness Strategy would be a framework to ensure the industry can continue feeding Australians as the pace of disruptive forces increases.
Key strategy areas to safeguard long-term food security include:
Reducing the cost of farming
Farmers face rising costs, with diesel, electricity, fertilisers, and machinery increasing by more than 50 per cent in the past five years. Combined with labour shortages and regulatory compliance, these pressures strain productivity and food prices.
“Rising costs and red tape for farmers are driving up production costs, which inevitably flow through to higher prices at the supermarket checkout,” said Jochinke.
The NFF is calling for policy reforms such as abolishing the super tax on family farms, maintaining the Fuel Tax Credits scheme, and committing $8 million annually to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).
Sustainable farming
Farmers manage more than half of Australia’s land and have reduced emissions intensity by 65 per cent since 1990. However, challenges like invasive species, water protection, and biodiversity remain. The NFF calls for a Federal Sustainable Agriculture Policy to support farmers in addressing these challenges while promoting sustainable practices.
“Our climate is changing, demanding new approaches to farming, and reshaping the expectations of our customers, regulators, and stakeholders,” said Jochinke.
Workforce and farm safety
The agricultural workforce shortage is worsened by recent reforms, and farm safety remains underfunded. The NFF advocates for more government investment in farm safety and mental health support for farmers, who have higher suicide rates than other workers.
“Unmet workforce needs continue to place a hand brake on productivity, with a growing risk that changing attitudes to migration will exacerbate this problem,” said Jochinke.
Securing global markets
Australia’s agricultural sector depends on global markets, exporting more than 70 per cent of its production annually. While trade with China has improved, uncertainties remain with protectionist policies, such as those from the Trump administration. The NFF advocates for increased trade diplomacy to secure Australia’s position.
“The global trading environment is becoming more protectionist and uncertain, threatening the market access that underpins our $80 billion export industry,” said Jochinke.
Regional infrastructure
The demographic shift towards regional Australia is placing pressure on infrastructure, including housing, healthcare, and digital connectivity. The NFF urges investment in regional infrastructure to support growing populations and agricultural productivity.
“Our regions are transforming rapidly as internal migration accelerates, stretching housing, infrastructure, and services to their limits,” said Jochinke.
By addressing supply chain vulnerabilities, reducing cost pressures, supporting sustainable practices, and ensuring access to global markets, Australia can secure food security for its citizens and the world.
“The NFF looks forward to engaging with all candidates and parties in the coming election campaign to highlight how supporting farmers helps keep food and fibre affordable for all Australians, while achieving our vision of becoming Australia’s next $100 billion industry by the year 2030,” said Jochinke.