Program Strategy
The Australian vegetable industry is undergoing change as it adapts to the growing influence of international markets. Competition from overseas vegetable suppliers (particularly for processed vegetables) is intensifying and resulting in loss of some export market share and increased imports to the domestic market.
In June 2005, the Australian Government announced funding for a project under the Australian Government’s Industry Partnership Program to take stock of the vegetable industry situation and set directions for the future. The final report from the project was issued in November 2005 and identified three ‘facilitative actions’, including,
- investment in 7 Foundation Projects,
- design and implementation of an integrated communications plan, and
- the formation of the Australian Vegetable Industry Development Group.
The AVID Group is responsible for prioritising the activities identified in the Industry Partnerships Project; assisting the Government direct its $3million investment; and being a focus for future industry commitment and resources.
The approach being taken by the Group is to create the frameworks for investment in projects with the highest potential to create positive and lasting change in the Australian vegetable industry’s profitability, growth and sustainability.
The Group is working collaboratively across all vegetable industries and with firms and industries bodies involved in all stages of the value chain from consumers to farms.
