The year 2030 may seem far off, but the agricultural and food sector is already gearing up for the future with innovative strategies in place. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, recently announced the finalisation of an online dashboard system to monitor the progress of actions under the Food Vision 2030 Strategy. This dashboard, set to be launched in phases, will play a crucial role in tracking environmental, economic, and social data to ensure the industry stays on track towards its goals.
Food Vision 2030 sets out a comprehensive roadmap for the agri-food sector up to 2030, with a clear focus on sustainability across various fronts. The strategy revolves around four core missions that aim to transform the sector into a more climate-smart, resilient, and innovative industry. These missions include promoting environmental sustainability, supporting primary producers, ensuring food safety and nutrition, and driving competitiveness through technology and talent.
The recent publication of the second Food Vision Annual Report highlighted significant progress made in implementing the strategy. As of 2023, 20 out of the 218 actions outlined in the strategy have been completed, marking a solid start towards the overall objectives. Additionally, substantial actions have been undertaken for 121 items, while progress is underway for 75 actions. These achievements showcase the commitment and dedication of stakeholders in driving the sector forward.
One of the key milestones in 2023 was the launch of several crucial programs and initiatives to bolster the sector’s growth and sustainability. From the new Forestry Program and Fertiliser Database to the National Biodiversity Action Plan and the Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme, these developments are instrumental in shaping a more resilient and competitive agri-food industry. The establishment of An Rialálaí Agraibhia (Agri-Food Regulator) and the Suckler Carbon Efficiency Program (SCEP) further demonstrate the sector’s commitment to meeting the challenges ahead.
Minister McConalogue’s proactive approach to leading the Food Vision agenda is evident through the establishment of a High-Level Implementation Committee. With eleven meetings already conducted and more scheduled, the committee’s role is crucial in driving collaboration among stakeholders to achieve the strategic missions. The minister’s dedication to steering the sector towards a sustainable and prosperous future is underscored by ongoing efforts to ensure the successful delivery of the strategy’s objectives.
As the Food Vision 2030 ‘dashboard’ nears completion and prepares for its phased launch, it represents a significant step towards transparent monitoring and evaluation of the sector’s progress. By providing stakeholders and the public with access to real-time data and insights, the dashboard will enable informed decision-making and foster accountability across the industry. This digital tool holds great promise in guiding the agri-food sector towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
In conclusion, the ongoing efforts to implement the Food Vision 2030 Strategy underscore the industry’s commitment to driving sustainable growth and innovation. With key initiatives in place and the upcoming launch of the monitoring dashboard, the sector is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By working together and harnessing collective expertise, the agri-food industry in Australia is poised to thrive and succeed in the years to come. Subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s Newsletter for more insights and updates on the agricultural industry.
