25 May 2013

Plan unveiled to 'put Australia on world food map'

7:45 pm on 25 May 2013

Australian agriculture minister Joe Ludwig has unveiled a plan designed to grow the local food industry and put Australia on the world food map.

First promised in the 2010 election campaign, the National Food Plan includes a research fund to help Australian producers capitalise on the so-called Asian "dining boom".

There is also funding to better brand Australian food exports.

"It's about helping domestic opportunities find connections in Asia," Mr Ludwig says. "It's about putting our Aussie mark on food and making sure that we all get a benefit out of it."

The largest contribution of $A30 million will go to an Asian food markets research fund, the ABC reports. A further $5.6 million will be used to boost trade ties in Asia.

Almost $6 million will go to promoting Australian agriculture in overseas markets and $2 million to develop a strong and unique Australian food brand.

Mr Ludwig says the plan recognises that foreign investment is a significant player in Australia.

He also says there needs to be a productivity commission to review and reform food supply chain regulations and an Australian Council on Food to engage with industry and community leaders.