Australian food security strategy lauded by seafood industry

Having contributed to the 2019 Food Security Inquiry, “Australian Food Story: Feeding the Nation and Beyond”, SIA said it is looking forward to working with government to implement key recommendations, including Recommendation 5 of the final report: “As part of the National Food Plan, and in conjunction with industry, develop a specific strategy for expanding the seafood sector, one which optimises the use of resources while ensuring the economic and environmental sustainability of the industry.”

SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta emphasised the urgency of addressing food security for the seafood sector.

“For the Australian seafood industry, raising awareness and planning for the future of food security cannot come soon enough,” Papacosta said.

She continued: “Currently, 64% of the seafood Australians eat is imported. Without a clear plan to invest in and protect our local fishers and aquaculture producers, particularly in regional communities, this figure will only continue to rise.”

SIA said it will continue to collaborate with government and industry stakeholders to ensure a robust and sustainable future for Australia’s seafood sector.

According to the re-elected Albanese Labor Government, the new national food security strategy will boost the security and supply chain resilience of agriculture and food production systems in Australia. Through it, the hope is to identify opportunities to improve supply chain resilience, with the goal of minimising price volatility and costs at the checkout.  

The government will also establish a National Food Council, comprising industry and community experts, to advise on the development and implementation of the strategy.  Additionally, it will examine the potential to grow a biofuels feedstock industry to support Australia’s transition to net-zero. 

“Australia has an impressive record in agriculture, feeding millions of people both here and abroad, but we can’t afford to be complacent,” Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said. “When our food and supply chains are secure, it reduces financial strain on households, helping all Australians. I’m excited to see the final strategy and work towards a stronger and more robust and resilient food system.”