Australia's honey industry is at a critical juncture. With biosecurity threats like Varroa mite, increasing export market demands and growing consumer interest in provenance, the need for comprehensive hive and honey traceability has never been greater.
Funded through the National Agricultural Traceability Grants Program and managed by AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program, this feasibility study is exploring how national beehive and honey traceability systems could enhance biosecurity, regulatory compliance, operational cost savings and industry resilience across the honey bee sector. Investment into the viability of such systems is key to addressing emerging threats from pests and diseases, while building confidence in Australian honey for domestic and international markets.
The project aims to assess the feasibility, costs and regulatory acceptance required for robust, fit-for-purpose traceability systems that could be rolled out nationally, benefiting commercial operators, supply chain partners and amateur/hobbyist beekeepers.
The study uses a triangulated approach; combining quantitative, qualitative and comparative international case study analysis to ensure insights are industry-driven and actionable.
We're learning from international success stories – from New Zealand's rapid mobile-first adoption to Quebec's industry-led cooperative model while investigating the feasibility of a uniquely Australian solution. Through comprehensive stakeholder engagement, we will work to determine whether a national traceability system is practical, beneficial and supported by industry: from hobbyist beekeepers with a handful of hives to large commercial operations managing thousands.
Industry engagement is crucial
This project prioritises engagement across the industry, and will employ tailored interviews, national surveys and stakeholder workshops. Feedback from AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Advisory Panel and oversight from a dedicated Steering Committee will ensure that findings are credible and widely supported.
Have Your Say
Your experience and insights are critical to getting this right. Whether you're a commercial beekeeper, amateur enthusiast, processor, or industry partner, we want to hear from you.
Head to the Facebook page to find out more, participate in surveys and interviews and follow our progress as we develop recommendations for Australia's beekeeping future.
