Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has underscored the importance of Australian manufacturing in supporting the nation’s food and beverage industry, during a dinner event in Melbourne on Saturday, 21 March.
Addressing industry leaders, Albanese emphasised the role of local production in maintaining quality and building resilience against global economic shocks.
“Central to our national success, is the success of Australian manufacturing,” he said. “Our capacity for trade is essential to our growth, but our industry must also be strong at home.”
The Prime Minister noted that Australian producers are navigating pressures from higher fuel costs and disrupted supply chains amid international instability, including energy market shocks linked to the conflict in the Middle East.
He outlined government measures designed to support manufacturers, such as increasing domestic fuel reserves, strengthening supply chain security, and cracking down on unfair price rises.
Albanese also highlighted ongoing initiatives to boost domestic manufacturing capacity. “Driving investment in domestic manufacturing so we can make more things here… embracing the capacity of new technology – including AI – so more value-adding can happen here, in Australian factories,” he said, noting that such measures aim to enhance productivity and resilience.
He referenced trade efforts as complementary to domestic industry support, including a Free Trade Agreement with the UAE and an upcoming Australia-EU trade deal, which he said could open access to a European market of 450 million consumers.
“The theme of my Government is securing a Future Made in Australia,” Albanese said, stressing the importance of both local production and international trade in sustaining Australia’s economic growth.
The Prime Minister concluded by highlighting collaboration across sectors. “Supporting Australia’s manufacturing and production capacity, so we can make more things here. Taking Australia out into the world, so we can grow our markets and grow our economy at home,” he said.
The dinner brought together representatives from across the food and beverage supply chain, including manufacturers, farmers, scientists, and engineers, reflecting the government’s ongoing engagement with the sector.
