Australia’s food and grocery manufacturing sector employed more than 301,000 people in 2024–25, with turnover, investment and exports reaching record levels, according to the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC).
The figures, released in the AFGC’s State of the Industry 2024–25 report, show food and grocery manufacturing now accounts for 33 per cent of all manufacturing jobs in Australia, with more than a third of the workforce based in regional communities.
Speaking at the AFGC APEX 2026 conference, AFGC chief executive Colm Maguire said the sector played a significant role in supporting employment and regional economies.
“We account for one in three manufacturing jobs in Australia. That’s our industry supporting communities and livelihoods across the country, especially in regional areas where manufacturing is the lifeblood of local communities,” Maguire said.
“Food and grocery manufacturing is Australia’s largest manufacturing sector and one of the country’s most significant employers.”
According to the report, industry turnover reached $182.6 billion in 2024–25. Capital investment rose 16 per cent to $4.5 billion, while exports increased 17.4 per cent to $52.6 billion, outpacing import growth.
“When businesses have confidence to invest, Australia benefits through more jobs, stronger regional communities and greater manufacturing capability,” Maguire said.
“That investment helps businesses grow, improve productivity and create opportunities for future generations.”
The AFGC said the sector nevertheless faces continued pressure on margins and operating costs, including from supply chain disruptions in the Middle East and rising energy and commodity costs.
The industry is targeting $250 billion in turnover by 2030 and is calling for investment incentives, affordable and reliable energy, and regulatory settings that support growth.
“Australia has the capability, the workforce and the businesses to grow food and grocery manufacturing even further,” Maguire said. “The task now is ensuring we have the policy settings that allow that growth to happen here.”
Explore the full AFGC State of the Industry report and interactive data.
