Australia’s food system, valued at $800 billion, carries hidden costs estimated at up to $274 billion, the highest per capita in the world, according to a new CSIRO report.
The hidden costs primarily stem from environmental degradation and health impacts linked to the current food production and consumption model.
The CSIRO has completed the first-ever national stocktake of Australia’s food system, identifying both its economic strengths and critical sustainability challenges.
Around 100,000 Australian farmers support the food needs of approximately 100 million people globally, including the domestic population of 27 million.
The report calls for a fundamental shift in how the food system is managed and monitored, particularly in the context of resilience, health, and environmental sustainability.
Dr. Michael Robertson, Director of CSIRO Agriculture and Food, emphasized the need for regular, integrated reporting to tackle the complexity of food system challenges.
He noted that beyond being an economic powerhouse and major employer, Australia’s food system must also ensure equitable access to safe, nutritious, and sustainable food.
Despite the system’s successes, CSIRO’s Larelle McMillan highlighted the absence of a coherent national food policy, as food-related responsibilities span multiple government sectors.
McMillan stressed the need for coordinated data and action, noting that nearly one-third of Australian households experience food insecurity each year.
A national reporting system, the report suggests, could guide policies and programs aimed at ensuring sustainable, healthy, and affordable food for all Australians.
