The Australian federal government has allocated $6.8 million in its 2025-26 budget to protect the nation’s agricultural exports as the sector braces for one of its most productive years amid growing global trade uncertainty and the threat of US tariffs.
The funding aims to maintain international market access and support Australia’s role in contributing to global fair trade standards. It comes as key export sectors — particularly red meat and wine — face potential tariff impositions by US President Donald Trump, according to several independent agricultural outlooks.
Budget documents revealed that the total production value of agriculture, fisheries, and forestry is projected to reach $98 billion in 2025/26, the third-highest figure on record. Roughly 70% of that output is expected to be exported, underlining the importance of international market access to the sector’s success.
“These functions support the stability of Australia’s international agricultural trade position in a more uncertain geopolitical and international trading environment,” the regional ministerial statement noted.
Ongoing geopolitical tensions — including the war in Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East, and piracy threats disrupting global shipping routes — have compounded risks for Australian exporters.
In addition to safeguarding trade access, the budget earmarks nearly $24 million over three years for regional trade events, with funding for the prominent Beef Australia showcase doubled to $12 million. These events are seen as vital platforms for remote producers to share innovations and stimulate regional economies.
The government also reinforced its biosecurity commitments, extending $49 million in previous allocations and setting aside an additional $11 million to assist producers in combating the effects of established pests and weeds. The move comes in the wake of recent fire ant movements in floodwaters from ex-tropical cyclone Alfred.
A $3.5 million national food security strategy has also been confirmed in the budget, with a focus on strengthening productivity and supply chains — particularly in regional areas increasingly vulnerable to food insecurity.
“Australia’s food security and resilience is more important than ever,” the government stated, aligning with calls from the National Farmers’ Federation to bolster support for the agricultural sector amid rising global uncertainties.
AEROSPACE & DEFENCE | North Korea to Export Drones to Middle East and Africa, Expanding Its Markets
