Traceability plan & grants set to enhance agtech innovation

Eleven projects aimed at supporting industry to adopt and improve traceability tech are set to receive Federal funding under the Livestock and Animal Traceability Development, Implementation, and Improvement Grant Round, which forms part of the Albanese Government’s more than $120 million investment in the traceability space.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Anthony Chisholm announced the successful grantees today after releasing Australia’s first National Agricultural Traceability Strategy: Implementation Plan 2023 to 2028 to support livestock monitoring and improve responses to biosecurity emergencies.

The release of the 5-year implementation plan follows extensive collaboration and engagement through a co-design process across sectors and corresponding supply chains to set out clear key activities and timeframes.

The implementation plan stems from Australia’s first National Agricultural Traceability Strategy 2023 to 2033, which highlights the crucial role traceability plays in maintaining Australia’s international reputation as a source of high-quality produce.

The Albanese Government’s commitment to enhancing agricultural traceability has been underpinned by substantial investments through Federal grants, such as those announced today, which target projects that deliver long term outcomes for Australian producers and agribusinesses.

Assistant Minister Chisholm made today’s announcements on traceability after meeting with those leading Australia’s national science agency. The CSIRO’s work on a digital ecosystem for food safety compliance in the red meat industry, was backed through the previously announced Regulatory Technology (Regtech) Research and Insights Grant Round.

The team at the Brisbane facility, who are supported by Australian Country Choice and Teys Australia, are working to enhance agricultural traceability reforms and build data sharing capabilities to help develop a risk assessment tool for red meat processors.

A list of successful grantees under the National Agricultural Traceability Grants Program can be found here, and the National Agricultural Traceability Strategy: Implementation Plan 2023 to 2028 can be accessed here.

Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Anthony Chisholm: 

“Since taking on the Assistant Minister role in July, I’ve been really impressed by the level of innovation being undertaken by producers and researchers across the Ag sector. Collaboration is the best way we can increase profits and competitiveness, and protect our industry from harm.

“This implementation plan will aim to keep the goals of the overarching national agricultural traceability strategy at the forefront, and underpin them with a clear plan for action across the agricultural sector, ensuring we support agribusiness and Australia remains the trading partner of choice for many countries.

“Australia’s Ag sector has a great story to tell the world in the traceability space due to its enviable status as a leader in providing safe, high quality and sustainably produced commodities.”

Quote attributable to Co-Chair of the Australian Agricultural Traceability Governance Group, Jo Grainger:

“Our customers and international trading partners are seeking more information about Australian agricultural supply chains.

“Through delivering the priority action areas outlined in the implementation plan we expect improved market access, increased efficiencies, and the delivery of benefits to farmers. That’s why traceability is a joint effort from everyone, for everyone.”

Quote attributable to Co-Chair of the Australian Agricultural Traceability Governance Group, Dianne Tipping:

“Small-scale producers stand to gain significantly from traceability initiatives. Overall, these initiatives can empower small-scale producers to improve their operations, access new opportunities, and build stronger relationships with consumers both domestically and internationally.

“The implementation plan outlines a comprehensive approach to ensuring that Australian agricultural products remain safe, clean, and sustainable, thereby securing access to premium markets and enhancing consumer trust.

“It’s an exciting development for the agricultural sector, promising significant benefits for producers, businesses, and consumers alike.”