Australia food and grocery manufacturing reaches record turnover

The Australian food and grocery manufacturing sector has reached record levels of turnover and employment, according to the Australian Food and Grocery Council’s (AFGC) ‘State of Industry 2024–25’ report. Turnover reached $182.6 billion, while capital investment rose 16% to $4.5 billion. Exports also saw a 17.4% increase, reaching $52.6 billion.

The industry now employs over 301,000 people, accounting for one in three manufacturing jobs in Australia. A significant portion of this workforce is located in regional areas. AFGC CEO Colm Maguire noted that the sector is Australia’s largest manufacturing sector and a vital supporter of local communities.

Despite this growth, the AFGC warned of ongoing pressures on margins and operating costs. These challenges include rising energy and commodity costs, as well as supply chain disruptions in the Middle East. To reach a target turnover of $250 billion by 2030, the industry is calling for investment incentives, smarter regulation, and affordable, reliable energy.