A new report shows that Australian wine exports to mainland China reached between $1.01 billion and $1.03 billion in the 12 months ending in March 2025.
2025 Australasian Packaging Conference – reimagining packaging design
Early Bird registrations are now open for the biennial Australasian Packaging Conference, which is coordinated by the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP), and is open to all packaging professional across Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia.
As the pinnacle educational event for packaging professionals for more than three decades, the 2025 Australasian Packaging Conference will be held on May 7-8, 2025 at the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, New South Wales, Australia.
The 2025 edition has been designed to provide an expansive range of plenary sessions, panel discussions and concurrent breakout sessions with over 70 speakers and leading experts in their field covering a broad range of topics relating to the theme ‘Reimagine Packaging Design’.
With the industry in Australia and New Zealand starting to review how packaging can meet the founding principles of the 2025 National Packaging Targets, but also be design-ready and recycle-ready to meet the in-coming Mandated National Packaging Design Standards, this conference will discuss the current and future state for packaging design in the region.
This conference will create the opportunity to discuss the path forward for the industry as a whole, and also the design roadmap that will help to create a circular economy for packaging for both Australia and New Zealand food and beverage industries that rely on packaging to keep their products fresh.
Key topics will include:
- Moving packaging design towards and beyond 2030.
- Preparing your packaging design for Extended Producer Responsibility looking at global best practice such as PPWR.
- Looking at eco modulation for kerbside collection and the flow on for new design standards.
- The in-coming Mandated National Packaging Design Standards and why you need to be ready.
- The shift towards mono materials.
- The reduction of chemicals of concern within packaging such as PFAS.
- The elimination of PVC, PVDC, PETG, oxo degradable, landfill-degradable materials in packaging.
- Increasing the use of recycled content in your packaging and why this is important for the circular economy.
- Reducing evidence-based problematic and unnecessary packaging.
- Avoidance and Reduction of all packaging (primary, secondary and tertiary).
- Emptiability of the pack and ensuring no product waste through intuitive packaging design.
- Reduction of the weight of packaging without impacting product protection or shelf life.
- Reduction of materials that are seen as contaminants to recycling systems in Australia & New Zealand.
- Plastics packaging to be recyclable through kerbside collection, alternate pathways such as the Soft Plastics
- Stewardship Australia/Curby or chemical/advanced recycling.
- The ability for the packaging to be recycled or reprocessed in Australia and/or New Zealand.
- Implementation and expansion of models for reusable packaging (primary, secondary and tertiary).
- Understanding Materials Recovery Facilities and how they link to design.
- Consistent on-pack labelling for consumers and best practice consumer education campaigns from across the globe.
The conference will also discuss future pathways in Australia and New Zealand for Chemical & Advanced Recycling, soft plastics recycling, container deposit schemes, single use plastic regulations, alternate pathways and collection programs for non-kerbside recyclable packaging.
The annual prestigious Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards will also be held as a part of the conference on the 6th of May.
All conference delegates will receive a complimentary ticket to the gala awards dinner.
The two-day Australasian Packaging Conference will attain a high amount of Certified Packaging Development (CPD) points towards the Certified Packaging Professional designation.
With concurrent sessions being held during the two-days the AIP recommends that you look at booking a number of your team to attend. Group discounts are available.
Australia overhauls measurement legislation
The Federal Government’s overhaul of Australia’s measurement legislation has been sparked by a comprehensive review of the current laws, aiming to better align with the evolving needs of businesses, particularly in sectors like food and beverage manufacturing, while ensuring accuracy and fairness in transactions.
Measurement is crucial to Australia’s economy, enabling trade, fostering consumer confidence, and enhancing market access globally. It underpins industries ranging from food and beverage manufacturing to energy and health, with accurate measurements essential for regulatory compliance and commercial success.
The reforms are designed to support Australia’s competitiveness on the world stage by modernising outdated rules and providing flexibility for new technologies.
The need for reform
Australia’s existing measurement legislation, established in 1960 under the National Measurement Act, has long supported industries by maintaining confidence in the accuracy of commercial transactions.
However, it has become clear that the legislation no longer adequately supports the introduction of new technologies or the fast-changing landscape of business practices.
The National Measurement Institute (NMI), the peak body responsible for the country’s measurement system, has emphasised that while the current system is crucial for maintaining consumer trust, it is rigid and overly prescriptive. The proposed reforms aim to make the framework more principles-based, flexible, and responsive to industry needs.
Key Benefits for Industry and Consumers
The new legislation is expected to bring several key benefits, particularly in areas crucial for food and beverage manufacturing, where precise measurement is paramount. For manufacturers, the reforms are designed to:
- Encourage investment in emerging technologies, making it easier for businesses to commercialise new innovations.
- Support the transition to new sustainability standards, helping industries meet Australia’s ambitious 2030 emissions reduction and 2050 net-zero targets.
- Ensure that consumers continue to get what they pay for, reinforcing fairness in trade and boosting confidence in product accuracy.
The NMI has long overseen trade measurement laws, including the regulation of critical instruments like petrol bowsers and supermarket scales. These regulations play a vital role in ensuring that transactions are accurate and fair, benefiting both buyers and sellers.
In 2023, trade measurement transactions in Australia were estimated to be worth over $750 billion annually, underlining the importance of maintaining a reliable and transparent system.
For food and beverage manufacturers, the changes in legislation will help address new measurement challenges posed by innovative production methods and evolving consumer demands.
As new technologies, like automated production systems and precision manufacturing, become more prevalent, having a flexible regulatory framework will allow businesses to adopt these advancements without the constraints of outdated laws.
The reforms will also provide a platform for Australian manufacturers to compete on a level playing field globally, fostering trust among international trading partners and supporting local industries in global markets.
Furthermore, the NMI’s role in maintaining measurement standards ensures that Australian-made products continue to be accurately measured, with traceability to the international system of units (SI).
Consultation and industry involvement
The reform process has been inclusive, with extensive public consultations held between 2017 and 2020. Feedback from stakeholders across industries helped inform the proposed changes, ensuring that the new laws will cater to the needs of a wide range of sectors.
This collaborative approach ensures that businesses, especially those in the food and beverage sector, will benefit from a modernised framework that supports growth, innovation, and efficiency.
To further engage stakeholders, the government will release an exposure draft of the new laws for public consultation. This step ensures transparency and invites additional feedback before the reforms are finalised and implemented.
A modernised framework
The updated measurement laws are expected to support the growing needs of Australian businesses, particularly those involved in food and beverage manufacturing, by creating a more adaptable, future-ready system. The reforms will also ensure that Australia’s economy remains competitive on the global stage, while continuing to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of trade measurements.
With these changes, the Australian Government aims to provide a stable, flexible, and future-proof regulatory environment that fosters innovation, boosts industry investment confidence, and ensures the continued reliability of the nation’s measurement system.
For food and beverage manufacturers and other industries, these reforms are a crucial step towards maintaining Australia’s strong position in global trade, while promoting growth, sustainability, and fairness in the marketplace.
Tecweigh WP50 weight processor adds functionality to weighbelt feeders
Tecweigh’s current range of food-grade stainless-steel weighbelt feeders has been enhanced by the release of the next gen WP50 weight processor.
New face to lead Endeavour Group through next phase
Tokyo visit strengthens trade partnership
QLD fishers backed by $400,000 investment
Arrival of ‘Food Made Good Standard’ in Australia
The Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA) has announced the arrival of its sustainability certification for the food and beverage sector.
Don’t miss the chance to be this year’s Woman of the Year
Time is ticking to get your nominations in for the 2025 Women in Industry Awards this year.
For more than a decade, these awards have celebrated the remarkable women redefining what’s possible – from transport and mining to engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and more.
You might know a colleague whose innovation changed the course of a project. A mentor who’s lifted countless others through knowledge and leadership. A young star who’s already made an impact early in their career. This is your chance to say: “You’ve made a difference”.
There’s an award category for every kind of impact – from energy to advocacy, safety to engineering, and beyond. And at the pinnacle stands the Woman of the Year award, recognising the very best of the best.
One of the awards is the Excellence in Manufacturing Award which highlights women who are shaping the future of production. The title is proudly held by Derelle Mitchell, managing director and founder of Health Focus Manufacturers, who won the award in 2024.
Nominations are ongoing until 9 May 2025. Seize the opportunity to nominate a woman who has inspired you at work, and is doing incredible things in your industry. Submit your nomination here and don’t miss out this year!
Major export win for Aussie red meat supply chain
Major export approvals for Australian sheep, lamb and goat export establishments to access China’s market have been welcomed by the Australian Meat Industry Council (AMIC).
Wine Communicators of Australia announce new executive officer
Ministers meet for farm safety roundtable
In its second year, leaders from across government and industry will come together to discuss the prevention of workplace fatalities and injuries in the agriculture sector.
End Food Waste Australia announces new CEO
Following an extensive selection process, Tristan Butt has been appointed as End Food Waste Australia’s (EFWA) new chief executive officer (CEO).
ELGAS and LPG: Powering efficiency in Food & Beverage manufacturing
The Australian food and beverage manufacturing sector thrives on efficiency, precision, and reliability. In this demanding landscape, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supplied by ELGAS emerges as a versatile and dependable energy solution. From powering commercial kitchens with instant and controllable heat crucial for consistent cooking quality, to fuelling essential processes like steam generation for sterilisation and hot water for sanitation, LPG plays a vital role in maintaining productivity and hygiene standards. Its adaptability extends to powering packaging and processing equipment, ensuring smooth operations across the production line.
Aussie startups part of top 10 finalist in GHAC
PepsiCo has announced 10 startup finalists — including two emerging Australian companies — for its 2025 Greenhouse Accelerator Program in Asia Pacific (GHAC), an initiative designed to drive innovation in sustainable agriculture, the circular economy, and climate action.
Australians vote favourite Liquor Store of the Year
Returning program tailored for WA agrifood-tech
Now in its sixth year, HARVEST is open to Western Australian (WA) agrifood-tech startups, businesses and farmers seeking innovative solutions in the agrifood sector.
A sustainable solution for Australian agriculture
As the impact of climate change, soil degradation, and rising costs continue to weigh on Australian farmers, a new sustainable solution to improve agricultural practices is crucial for the industry.
One such solution gaining momentum is pelletised compost, a refined version of traditional compost designed to enhance soil health, boost crop yields, and contribute to sustainable farming.
Pelletised compost is made from organic materials such as plant matter, manure, and food scraps, which are decomposed into nutrient-rich compost and then compressed into small, uniform pellets. This process makes the compost easier to handle, store, and apply to crops.
Unlike traditional compost, which is often bulky and moisture-heavy, pelletised compost is dry, more concentrated, and compact, making it more efficient for farmers to work with.
As a result, the key benefits of pelletised compost go beyond its ease of application.
By improving soil structure, pelletised compost also enhances aeration and promotes root penetration, which is especially helpful for compacted soils where root growth can be stunted.
It also helps balance water retention in sandy soils and improves drainage in heavier soils, creating more favourable conditions for crop growth.
Unlike synthetic fertilisers, which provide a quick nutrient boost but can degrade soil quality over time, pelletised compost releases nutrients slowly. This gradual release ensures that crops receive a steady supply of essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium throughout the growing season.
As a result, nutrient imbalances and deficiencies are reduced, and plants can grow more healthily and consistently. Pelletised compost also reduces the need for synthetic chemical fertilisers, which are not only costly but can also harm the soil ecosystem and pollute waterways.
By providing nutrients naturally, pelletised compost aligns with Australia’s broader goals of reducing the environmental impact of farming and promoting regenerative agricultural practices.
For organic farmers, this compost offers a viable alternative to synthetic chemicals, which are prohibited in organic farming systems. Pelletised compost enhances soil fertility without relying on artificial inputs, making it a suitable solution for organic operations looking to maintain soil health and promote biodiversity.
One of the advantages of pelletised compost is its ability to support healthy soil ecosystems. The organic material it introduces helps foster beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, which break down organic matter and make nutrients more accessible to plants.
This contributes to the development of a more resilient and fertile soil, capable of withstanding the pressures of intensive farming.
The compost plays a crucial role in mitigating soil erosion, a serious concern for many Australian farmers. The organic matter in the compost binds soil particles together, reducing the risk of erosion caused by wind or heavy rainfall.
As Australian farming becomes increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme weather, reducing erosion is a critical step in maintaining soil integrity and preventing the loss of valuable topsoil.
Pelletised compost trial
A practical example of the benefits of pelletised compost can be seen on the property of Tim Mendham, a third-generation farmer from Blayney, New South Wales. Mendham, who has been farming in the cold high country of Blayney for nearly 18 years, has long prioritised improving the health of his soil.
For years, he relied on a mix of synthetic fertilisers and organic inputs to restore carbon and organic matter to his soils. However, traditional compost, which sits on top of the soil and depends on rain to break down, wasn’t always the most efficient option for him.
“Healthy soil is our top priority,” said Mendham. “We’ve always tried to get more organic matter back into our soils, especially since we rely on hay, silage, and cattle production. But with regular compost, it sits on top of the soil and relies on rain, which isn’t always reliable.”
Mendham was introduced to pelletised compost through a trial supported by the Federal Government’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
The trial on Mendham’s farm involved applying four different rates of pelletised compost directly with the seed during planting. The results were striking. After harvesting, Mendham observed a significant difference in crop yields.
The areas treated with higher rates of pelletised compost showed noticeable improvements in yield compared to the untreated sections.
“We were able to sow the pelletised compost right with the seed, which allowed it to sit directly next to the seed instead of just sitting on top of the soil,” he said. “The compost slowly released nutrients throughout the growing season, and the yields were definitely higher where compost had been applied.”
While Mendham’s farm typically uses around 13 tonnes of traditional compost per hectare, only 100 kilograms per hectare of pelletised compost was needed for the trial. This reduction in material use not only saved on handling and storage costs, but also made the application process quicker and more efficient.
“The pelletised compost is lighter and easier to spread, meaning we spent less time on the tractor and reduced movement across the paddocks,” said Mendham. “This allowed us to complete the job faster, with less wear and tear on our equipment.”
Beyond the improvements in soil health and crop yields, the financial benefits of pelletised compost have been equally evident.
While the cost per hectare of using pelletised compost may increase by around $50 compared to traditional methods, the resulting increase in yields has translated into higher profits.
“When you see such a big difference in yield, you realise the cost of using pelletised compost is minimal compared to the return,” said Mendham. “It saves us time and money while improving the efficiency of our operations.”
For farmers like Mendham, using such compost is a step towards a more sustainable and profitable future. As the demand for more sustainable farming solutions grows, pelletised compost offers a practical, cost-effective way to improve soil health and productivity.
A sustainable future
Mendham’s success with this compost is an example of its potential to positively impact Australian farming practices. With its ability to improve soil health, enhance crop yields, and reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers, this method offers a sustainable alternative that meets the demands of modern agriculture.
In the face of climate change, soil degradation, and increasing production costs, innovative solutions like this provide a sustainable way forward. Its benefits extend beyond individual farms, contributing to the broader goals of environmental stewardship and long-term agricultural sustainability.
Delivering a cutting edge indoor vertical farm
Total Construction has been appointed as the design and construction partner for Stacked Farms’ fully automated indoor vertical farm at Melbourne Airport, marking a big step in the evolution of sustainable food production.
The project, with an investment of $150 million, has already received planning approvals, and construction began in January 2025.
The facility is set to cover 10,000 square metres and once completed, will be the world’s largest indoor vertical farm by output, producing 3.4 million kilograms of fresh herbs and leafy greens annually.
The project is scheduled to be completed by mid-2026.
As the designated partner for the design and construction of the project, Total Construction brings extensive experience in food and beverage facility development.
The company has been involved in the project from its inception, working under an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) model, which allows for a collaborative and risk-managed approach to delivery.
Total Construction has been working closely with Stacked Farm and Melbourne Airport since 2023, refining the project’s design, approvals, and buildability.
This partnership has ensured the facility will be both efficient and scalable, offering a sustainable solution to meet the increasing demand for locally grown fresh produce.
By engaging early, Total Construction ensured the project isn’t only groundbreaking in scale and efficiency but also fully optimised for sustainability and performance.
“Our experience in delivering complex food and beverage facilities allows us to provide tailored engineering and construction solutions that support our clients’ technological and operational requirements,” said Rob Blythman group general manager, food and beverage at Total Construction.
Advanced pre-construction planning
Total Construction’s involvement from the early stages has been crucial in accelerating the project’s timeline. Key milestones during the pre-construction phase include:
The timeline for the Stacked Farm vertical farm project unfolded over several key stages, beginning in August 2023 and moving swiftly towards the commencement of construction in January 2025.
Initial design collaboration and feasibility assessments took place between August 2023 and April 2024, with Total Construction working closely with Stacked Farm to refine the project’s scope and design.
By October 2023, the first budgetary costing for the project was provided, and weekly steering meetings with Melbourne Airport were initiated to ensure alignment on the project’s progression. In January 2024, site investigations and due diligence were completed, confirming that the site was ready for development. This critical phase ensured that any potential issues were addressed before moving forward.
In February 2024, the planning permit was submitted, marking a milestone as this was the first time Melbourne Airport had seen a planning permit submitted before the board’s formal approval for the project. This proactive approach helped expedite the project’s approval process.
The APAM Board approved the project in March 2024, followed by Total Construction being issued a Letter of Intent to proceed with the design work.
The project reached another major milestone in May 2024, when the 100 per cent design finalisation was completed, and staged construction documentation was initiated. This signified the completion of the design phase and the start of detailed planning for the construction stage. In December 2024, Total Construction mobilised the site, with airport authority approval finalised, setting the stage for the physical development to begin.
Finally, in January 2025, construction officially began, marking the start of the next phase in bringing the world’s largest indoor vertical farm (by volume) to life at Melbourne Airport. This careful and methodical timeline ensured that each step was completed efficiently, paving the way for a successful project delivery.
The Stacked Farms vertical farm project will set a global benchmark for high-tech farming, featuring advanced technology and sustainable practices.
Key innovations
This new facility will have several standout features including AI-driven operations. It will be automated, with 25 proprietary robotic systems managing key processes such as seeding, germination, and harvesting This technology ensures precise, efficient farming with minimal human intervention, increasing productivity while reducing the need for manual labour.
In addition to automation, the facility is designed with energy efficiency in mind. The lighting systems used in the farm will be 47 per cent more energy-efficient than traditional farming setups, lowering the farm’s energy consumption. This focus on energy efficiency is just one aspect of the farm’s commitment to sustainability, as it will also implement a zero-waste water system.
This system will recycle and reuse water throughout the farming process, ensuring minimal waste.
The farm’s ability to produce crops year-round is supported by a climate-controlled environment, which ensures consistent conditions for growth regardless of the external weather.
This climate control allows for continuous, reliable crop production, a crucial factor in meeting demand and maintaining supply throughout the year.
Labour efficiency is another area where the facility excels. Unlike traditional farms that often require large teams to manage operations, Stacked Farm will only need 15 highly skilled staff to run the entire operation.
This streamlined workforce is made possible by the advanced technology and automation systems in place, enabling the farm to operate more efficiently than conventional farming methods.
Finally, the farm will see faster crop cycles compared to traditional farming.
Crops will be ready for harvest in just 16 to 31 days, a reduction from the typical 45 to 80 days required for crops grown using conventional methods.
The accelerated cycle allows the farm to produce more crops in less time, further improving efficiency and sustainability.
Total Construction’s expertise in high-performance food and beverage infrastructure positions the company as a leader in delivering innovative, sustainable, and future-proof developments.
This project is another milestone in Total Construction’s history of successful food and beverage projects, showcasing its in-house expertise in process engineering, design, and construction management.
Once completed, Stacked Farm Melbourne will be the first large-scale indoor vertical farm located in an airport precinct in the Southern Hemisphere.
The facility will not only demonstrate the power of advanced engineering and sustainable practices but will also serve as a model for future vertical farming projects worldwide.
Growing robotics-ready AI technology in viticulture
In collaboration with Yamaha, The Yield, UTS and Treasury Wine Estates, a new project is using advanced data analytics and AI technology to enhance harvest yield predictions in horticulture.