Albanese Labor Government backing Hort Connections 2026
1 June 2026
The Albanese Labor Government is proudly supporting horticulture’s bright future which will be celebrated at this year’s Hort Connections conference now underway in Adelaide.
The Government is investing $1.5 million towards Hort Connections, which promotes innovation and strengthens links between growers and the broader horticulture industry.
The 2026 event will host more than 3,500 delegates, who will share insights, foster connections, and enjoy the nation’s premier horticulture conference and trade show.
Horticulture is one of Australia’s fastest growing agricultural industries, with more than 17,000 fruit, vegetable and nut producers across the country.
ABARES’ March Report estimates the value of horticulture production at around $18.8 billion in 2025–26, increasing to around $19 billion in 2026–27.
The value of horticulture exports is estimated to reach more than $4 billion in 2025-26, and is forecast to remain strong in 2026-27.
The Albanese Labor Government is proudly backing this export success with recent market access achievement including new access for Australian blueberries to Vietnam, new access for mainland apples to China, and improved access for macadamias to India.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins MP:
“Australian horticulture has a bright future and Hort Connections is a critical event bringing industry together to share ideas, strengthen partnerships and support growth.
“Our Government is proud to be backing this important opportunity for Australian horticulture.
“We know this event comes at a time when our farmers and producers are facing disruptions from the war in the Middle East, and the impact of challenging seasonal conditions in some parts of the country.
“That’s why our Albanese Labor Government has been working around the clock with farmers, producers and industry to help manage the impacts of the war in the Middle East, and to keep Australia’s food supply chain moving.”