The value of Western Australia’s horticulture industry continues to grow, supporting communities and regional economic development.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD’s) Value of Horticulture from Western Australia 2023–24 report concludes the real value of the state’s horticulture sector grew by 9.6 per cent in the three and a half years since 2020.
The report outlines production and export trends in fruit, vegetables, wine and amenity horticulture, including flowers, nurseries and turf. The data is used by industry, government and community to plan for future needs and maintain a steady supply of diverse, affordable and sustainably grown fresh food.
In 2023–24, WA’s horticulture production was valued at $1.92 billion, made up of fresh fruit, nuts, vegetables and amenity horticulture. This reflects a 9.6 per cent increase on 2020 levels after adjusting for inflation.
Avocados remain the largest share of the WA’s fruit production, with a wholesale value of $290 million. Wine grapes followed at $103 million, strawberries at $90 million, table grapes at $67 million and apples at $64 million.
Ware or fresh potatoes led WA’s vegetable production at $136 million, followed by carrots at $82 million, cucumbers $61 million, melons $55 million and tomatoes $50 million.
Most of WA’s horticulture produce is consumed locally, reducing reliance on imports, which fell by 8 per cent between 2020 and 2023–24.
The value of WA fruit and vegetable exports reached $187 million in 2023–24, led by vegetables at $96 million, fruit at $91 million, wine at $35 million and amenity horticulture, mainly cut flowers, at $3 million.
Avocado exports rose 646 per cent between 2020 and 2023–24 to $36 million. Apples increased 157 per cent to $1 million, while strawberry exports rose 12 per cent to $26 million.
Carrots remain WA’s largest vegetable export at $61 million. Demand increased 18 per cent for onions to $9 million, truffles rose 69 per cent to $8 million, ware or fresh potatoes reached $6 million and overseas seed potato sales increased 29 per cent to $5 million.
“Strong gains in fruit and amenity horticulture have been offset by slight declines in the value of vegetables and nuts – reinforcing the sector’s overall contribution to the State economy,” said DPIRD senior economist Manju Radhakrishnan.
“The data shows a gradual trend towards export growth in high value crops, like avocados, grapes and strawberries.
“Fruit industry growth is supported by improved product quality and rising demand for premium produce in both domestic and overseas markets.
“This report demonstrates the horticulture industry’s valuable contribution to strengthening food security, driving regional economic development, while supporting health communities and showcasing our premium produce to the world.”
Future industry challenges and opportunities were discussed at DPIRD’s recent Western Australian Horticulture Updates 2025, attended by more than 200 growers and industry representatives from across the State.
The biennial event included panel discussions on the theme ‘Growing WA – fresh food, sustainable futures’ and presentations on DPIRD research collaborations.