Queensland plays big role in ag industry

QUEENSLAND’S integral role in our nation’s agricultural story was highlighted by the Queensland Farmers’ Federation as part of the inaugural National Agriculture Day on November 21.

National Ag Day is a chance to reflect on the pivotal role agriculture has played in our history, celebrate its successes and get excited about its bright future.

QFF president Stuart Armitage said there was a lot for Queenslanders to be proud of when celebrating our state’s agriculture sector and farmers who produce high quality food, fibre and foliage.

“Queensland now accounts for about 24% of Australia’s overall production value, making it the number one agricultural state in the country,” Mr Armitage said.

“This really should not come as a surprise with the 26,000 farm businesses operating across 84% (144 million hectares) of the state.

“The sector is worth nearly $20 billion and employs over 315,000 Queenslanders across the whole food supply chain, supporting rural, regional and metropolitan economies.

“I think many Queenslanders acknowledge that our farmers are essential, however few would truly understand the scale and quality of the food, fibre and foliage they produce.

“For example, how many people would know that one Queensland dairy farm on average produces enough milk for over 12,000 people a year? Or that nurseries produce over 636 million plants for food, fibre and foliage every year?

“With over 85% of Australians living in urban areas, we are one of the most urbanised countries in the world. National Ag Day provides an opportunity to not only celebrate, but also educate the broader public about the critical role farmers play in sustaining our everyday life.

“The National Farmers Federation should be commended for their work in advocating, establishing, and promoting this important day of recognition.”

Queensland agriculture facts:

Queensland is Australia’s largest agricultural state or territory accounting for 24% of the national production value.

About 26,000 farm businesses across the state, directly employ 60,608 Queenslanders and underpin many regional and rural communities.

315,000 Queenslanders are employed across the whole food supply chain.

84% of the state (144 million hectares) is used for agricultural production.

Queensland’s agriculture has a farm gate value of $19.95 billion.