The establishment of Australia’s inaugural National Food Council has sparked significant criticism from various sectors connected to the food industry. Critics argue that the council fails to adequately represent the diverse interests of the food sector, limiting its scope and effectiveness.
The council is designed to advise Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins on the development of the National Food Security Strategy, known as Feeding Australia. It features prominent figures including Andrew Henderson from Agsecure, Barry Irvin AM from Bega Group, and Claire McClelland from the Australian Fresh Produce Alliance, among others.
Concerns Over Representation and Influence
Critics have expressed concerns that the council’s composition does not reflect the full range of stakeholders involved in food production and consumption. Notably, Liz Jackson, an associate professor at Curtin University, is among those appointed, bringing extensive expertise in supply chain management.
The formation of this council comes over 15 years after the initial draft of the National Food Plan, a response to calls from the public health sector and food industry in 2009. The Who Decides Food? campaign, spearheaded by organizations such as the Macdoch Foundation, aims to ensure that the council prioritizes a healthier and fairer food system across Australia.
According to Michelle Gortan, CEO of the Macdoch Foundation, “Australia’s food systems have been shaped by the profit maximisation aims of multinational corporations, while long-term health outcomes are ignored.” She highlighted that industrial practices have often overshadowed the interests of local producers and consumers, leading to detrimental health and environmental impacts.
A petition advocating for the federal government to re-evaluate the council has gained traction online. It calls for enhanced representation for small producers, First Nations communities, food sovereignty advocates, and public health experts. Initially signed by Phillip Baker and Kim Anastasiou from the University of Sydney’s School of Public Health, the petition has garnered support from over 200 signatories who share concerns about potential commercial influences on food policy.
The petition demands greater transparency regarding the affiliations of council members, their funding sources, and any conflicts of interest. It also proposes the addition of four new members to represent public health, independent food systems, and environmental sustainability, along with the establishment of measurable targets to address existing power imbalances in the food system.
Next Steps for the National Food Council
The inaugural meeting of the National Food Council is anticipated to occur before the end of the year, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to voice their perspectives. As the council begins its work, it faces the crucial challenge of balancing commercial interests against the need for a more inclusive and equitable food system that prioritizes health and sustainability.
This development marks a significant moment in Australia’s approach to food security and governance, with the potential to reshape the dynamics of the food industry for years to come. The push for a more representative council reflects a growing recognition of the complexities involved in food production and consumption, underscoring the need for a comprehensive strategy that truly serves the interests of all Australians.
