Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Joe Ludwig, said Australia’s food sector was performing strongly and had a bright future according to Australian Food Statistics 2011–12.
The food statistics report provides an annual snapshot of the Australian food industry and assists the Australian Government to monitor and assess Australia’s food production and food security.
“We all know our producers are some of the best in the world and this report highlights the important role they play in terms of food production and supply as well as to our economy and national food security,” Minister Ludwig said.
“The total value of Australia’s farm and fisheries food production increased by 3.4 per cent to A$42.6 billion in 2011–12,” Minister Ludwig said.
“There have been ups and downs, but overall that’s an increase of 31 per cent since 2006–07 when we were experiencing severe drought.”
Minister Ludwig said an increased production capacity and strong reputation as a high–quality, safe and nutritious food exporter meant Australia continued to be a net food exporter.
“Australian farmers grow over 90 per cent of the fresh food we eat, but they also produce enough food to feed 40 million people living beyond our borders,” he said.
“Last financial year we had a substantial food trade surplus – that is exports compared to imports – of A$19.2 billion. That’s an increase of 14.6 per cent from 2010–11.”
“The value of Australian food exports also increased by over 12 per cent to A$30.5 billion in 2011–12, A$3.3 billion higher than 2010–11 and the highest level since 2001–02.
“Overall the value of food exported from Australia has risen by 30.3 per cent between 2006–07 and 2011–12.”
Asia is the destination for more than 50 per cent of Australia’s food exports.
“The Gillard Government is working to make the most of the opportunities before us, like those presented by the Asian Century, and secure our food sector a strong and sustainable future into the long term,” Minister Ludwig said.
“I will soon release the National Food Plan which will outline the long–term vision for our food system and how we are going to get there.”
