AUSTRALIA’s farm gate production value is forecast to exceed $100 billion this financial year – four years ahead of the National Farmers’ Federation’s 2030 target.
The latest forecasts from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural Resources Economics and Sciences released today show Australia’s agricultural production value will hit a record $101.4 billion in 2025-26, and $107.4 billion when combined with fisheries and forestry.
ABARES forecasts show agriculture, fisheries and forestry exports will reach a record high of almost $85 billion in 2025-26, with more demand than ever for Australia’s world-class food and fibre.
NFF president Hamish McIntyre said the announcement is a landmark moment for Australian agriculture.
“In 2018, we set a bold target to grow Australian agriculture into a $100 billion industry by 2030,” Mr McIntyre said.
“At the time, some thought it was ambitious and some didn’t think we stood a chance. But farmers wouldn’t be in this game if they weren’t up for a challenge.
“Today, we are forecast to reach that milestone four years ahead of schedule. But it’s important to remember, our target has never been just about chasing a headline number,” he said.
“It is underpinned by a detailed roadmap that places farmer wellbeing, sustainability and natural capital alongside productivity and profitability.
Mr McIntyre said the milestone didn’t happen by accident.
“It happened because Australian farmers backed themselves,” he said.
“Today’s achievement comes despite drought, fires, floods, global market volatility and trade disruption.
“Productivity gains, innovation and improved market access have done the heavy lifting, but we can never forget the ‘can-do, never-say-never attitude from farmers to get us here, Mr McIntyre said.
The significant milestone is a testament to the hard work, resilience and skill of Australia’s farmers.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins said the forecast gives Australians 100 billion reasons to thank the country’s farmers, whose hard work, resilience and skill is helping power our national economy.
“Being on track to exceed the industry’s $100 billion target by four years is a tremendous result for our farmers and regional communities,” she said.
“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we also reaffirm our commitment to supporting our farmers and producers during difficult conditions, because we will always have their back.”
Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Anthony Chisholm said Australian farmers operate under difficult and ever-changing conditions, yet continue to deliver more for the nation’s economy than ever before.
“This year’s outlook is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the immense resilience and skill of Australia’s agricultural workforce,” he said.
