Federal Government commits $68 million to traceability plan

In a move to improve traceability, the Federal Government has committed more than $68 million to increase access to overseas markets. With the implementation of a National Agricultural Traceability Alliance as well as a hub and summit under the same name, the initiative is aimed at fostering leadership within traceability initiatives and establish platforms for producers to share experiences. The National Agricultural Traceability Hub is set to deliver up-to-date consumer trends, utilise new technologies — such as blockchain — and demonstrate the origin of Australia’s agricultural exports while “reducing compliance burdens”. Grants will also become available to “encourage innovation” and generate value across all primary industries. Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said investing in strong traceability frameworks and systems could add up to $1 billion a year to the bottom line of Australian farmers. “We’re working with the states and territories and industry to create the National Agricultural Traceability Alliance and National Agricultural Traceability Hub,” he said. “It (NAT Alliance and Hub) will bring industry groups, research bodies, state and territory bodies and governments together. “Customers have shown they are willing to pay more for a product that can meet provenance and sustainability standards so our farmers will get a better price for their product.”