- Traceability project backs up Australia's reputation for clean, green, safe food
- The Coalition has invested $12.4 million in modernising traceability systems
- Consultation will soon start to develop a policy framework and action plan
Aussie farmers will soon be showing the world exactly how good their produce is with the National Traceability Project getting underway.
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the project would enhance trust in Australian-grown products and give our farmers a competitive edge.
"We'll be able to more easily find where a biosecurity or food safety problem began so an isolated incident won't impact a whole industry," Minister Littleproud said.
"It will also let us stop overseas shipments earlier if there's a food safety issue.
"We already do this well but this will make us even better at it.
"It will let producers fully support claims, such as 'organic' and 'environmentally friendly'.
"This improvement will build greater trust in Aussie food and strengthen 'brand Australia'.
"If we can demonstrate our food is world's best we'll see better profits for farmers."
Consultations will soon get underway to develop a National Traceability Policy Framework and Action Plan within the next six months.
"Improving our traceability systems will help us strengthen our reputation for delivering high quality, clean, green and safe food," Minister Littleproud said.
The National Traceability Project is being led by a Traceability Working Group with members from all Australian governments.
Find out more about the traceability project here: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/market-access-trade/traceability-project.
Fast Facts
- Modelling shows broader traceability and biosecurity could increase agricultural production by $1 billion a year.
- Approximately 70 per cent of Australia's agricultural produce is exported.
