The assessment forms a key component of the forthcoming National Food Security Strategy and follows a high-level meeting of the National Food Council The Australian Government has announced a National…

The assessment forms a key component of the forthcoming National Food Security Strategy and follows a high-level meeting of the National Food Council

The Australian Government has announced a National Food Supply Chain Assessment as part of its broader efforts to safeguard the country’s food system against disruptions stemming from the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The assessment forms a key component of the forthcoming National Food Security Strategy and follows a high-level meeting of the National Food Council, where members reviewed the potential impacts of geopolitical instability on Australia’s agriculture and food supply chains.

The study will initially focus on diesel supply chains critical to farm operations and transport logistics, before expanding to other essential agricultural inputs, such as fertilisers and crop protection products. Findings from the assessment will also support the work of the Fuel Supply Taskforce, which is tasked with strengthening the nation’s energy resilience.

Andrew Henderson will lead the assessment on behalf of AgriFutures Australia. Henderson will temporarily step away from his role on the National Food Council to oversee the initiative. Meanwhile, Simeon Gilding has been appointed to the council, bringing experience from senior roles across defence, intelligence, and foreign affairs agencies.

An interim report focusing on diesel supply chains is expected within one month, with a final report due by year-end.

In parallel, the government has moved to bolster fuel availability for the agriculture sector. This includes releasing up to 762 million litres of petrol and diesel from domestic reserves by amending the Minimum Stockholding Obligation, along with enabling an additional 100 million litres of petrol supply per month through temporary changes to fuel quality standards until May.

Julie Collins, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, said the measures underscore the government’s commitment to ensuring food system resilience.

“While Australia remains food secure, global events highlight the importance of being prepared,” Collins said. “This assessment will help us identify practical steps to strengthen supply chains, ensuring our farmers and producers can continue to operate effectively and keep food moving both domestically and internationally.”

The initiative reflects a broader push by the government to reinforce supply chain resilience and maintain Australia’s competitiveness in global agricultural markets amid rising geopolitical uncertainties.