SOUTH-WEST Victoria has claimed the status as Australia’s largest agricultural producer, new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has revealed.
The ABS’ figures on the gross value of agricultural regions found that out of 50 Natural Resource Management Areas, ranking at the top was Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority, while Corangamite Catchment Management Authority ranked at number eight, contributing over $4.6 billion in production over the 2019-20 period.
Spanning key industries, including wool, dairy, livestock and horticulture, seven of Australia’s top ten agricultural regions were in Victoria.
Food and Fibre Great South Coast (FFGSC) chair, Georgina Gubbins, said that this incredible achievement should come as no surprise to the industry and state.
“It’s wonderful to see the ABS confirm we’re number one nationally,” she said.
“Our food and fibre producers have long been the backbone of our local communities, and the agricultural powerhouse of our entire state.”
The entire agricultural industry in Victoria’s south-west region accounts for over 21 per cent of all jobs, drives 60 per cent of the regional economy and contributes over $3bn in annual gross regional product.
FFGSC chief executive, Natalie Collard, said the upward trend was only going to increase.
“Research we commissioned last year found there was huge potential for significant industry growth, with simple, sustainable adjustments to our water use,” Ms Collard said.
“If we increase water efficiency by a very achievable 10 per cent, we would see notable outcomes for industry productivity, including an additional $40 million for our local economy, 400 people in full time employment and $21.7 million for local households.
“Critically, this can be done while upholding our strong commitment to sustainable water use.
“We’re now working hard with industry to make that happen with sustainable practices and improved water management.
“It’s important to remember that this is a vital next step not just for agribusinesses but the entire local community who reap the benefits.”
Cattle and calve production in the south-west of Victoria contributed over $1billion to commodity production value, as did whole milk production, while sheep, lambs and wool totalled $1.4bn in commodity value. Broadacre cropping contributed $739 million in commodity production in the south-west.
Food and Fibre Great South Coast is the representative body for Victoria’s agricultural powerhouse that spans its south-west. It represents $2.3 billion in agricultural output annually, and drives strategic change where it’s needed most, including in water management, sustainable practices, workforce issues and championing a positive industry image.
