The peak body for Australian food and grocery manufacturers is encouraging a food first approach to national policy, highlighting that cost-of-living support works best when paired with a robust cost-of-doing- business agenda. Following the Federal Budget, the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) welcomes the government’s commitment to easing financial pressure on households. However, lasting relief for Australians depends on a strong, viable domestic manufacturing sector that can keep shelves reliably stocked with affordable products, something the budget didn’t address in the long run.
A cost-of-doing-business agenda would bring in coordinated actions that reduce the financial and regulatory strain on essential industries – boosting efficiency, resilience and competitiveness. For food and grocery manufacturing practical and targeted action would include:
- Government tax incentives to modernise processes in the industry through automation and digitisation.
- Investing in more resilient transport infrastructure to protect against natural disaster disruptions.
- Ensuring access to stable, affordable energy for manufacturers.
- Addressing workforce shortages, particularly in regional and rural areas.
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The AFGC said that it looks forward to continued collaboration with government on delivering both cost-of-living relief and long-term industry resilience. Supporting essential industries like food and grocery manufacturing will help ensure everyday products remain accessible for all Australians.