A new report released last week confirms the Australian horticulture industry will be making an essential contribution to attaining the ambitious goal of $100 billion in national agricultural value by 2030.
Commissioned by Hort Innovation and delivered by The Centre for International Economics, the Contribution of Australian horticulture industry report predicts the sector will witness a 22.5 per cent increase in combined value by 2030, to reach $21.8 billion.
Jolyon Burnett, Chair of the NFF Horticulture Council, said the anticipated additional $4 billion generated by horticulture equated to half the value needed across the whole of agriculture to hit the $100 billion target on today’s figures. “The horticulture sector, including fruits, vegetables, nuts and also our turf, nursery and garden industries, has experienced solid growth, backed by strong demand and innovation, with this trend set to continue,” said Mr Burnett.
“We continue to punch well above our weight, being among the most efficient industries in converting valuable land, energy and water resources into more jobs and greater wealth across regional Australia.
“And with fewer than 1 in 10 Australians eating the recommended daily intake of vegetables, half eating enough fruit, and with diet-related chronic diseases currently the major causes of premature death and disability among adults in Australia, we have an opportunity and responsibility to grow our domestic markets.
“These are all opportunities we need to address in partnership, with state and federal governments, but also other organisations and businesses who share our goals.”