BCSDA to Make Submission on National Food Security Strategy Consultation

SYDNEY, 26 AUGUST 2025 - The Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia (BCSDA), as the leading voice for sustainable business in Australia, will make a formal submission in response to the Australian Government’s consultation on the development of the Feeding Australia: National Food Security Strategy.

Announced in the 2025–26 Federal Budget with a $3.5 million allocation over two years, the strategy aims to enhance the productivity, resilience, and security of Australia’s food system. It will be developed in collaboration with farmers, fishers, industry, and the community, recognising the importance of food to human health and wellbeing. Australia currently exports around 70% of its agricultural production, playing a significant role in global food security.

BCSDA welcomes this consultation as an opportunity to contribute a business perspective on how food system resilience can be strengthened in line with sustainability, innovation, and economic development.

In its submission, BCSDA will explore potential implications for businesses across the food value chain. This includes the possibility of new regulations to improve food safety and biosecurity, and the importance of engaging in the consultation process to help shape outcomes relevant to industry.

The strategy also aligns with Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). BCSDA will examine how businesses can adopt more sustainable practices to meet these goals and respond to emerging regulatory and consumer expectations.

As food system resilience becomes a national priority, companies may need to reassess supply chains to manage risks associated with climate change and market competition. BCSDA will highlight the importance of proactive supply chain management and local sourcing strategies where appropriate.

The submission will also explore how the strategy’s focus on collaboration and innovation could lead to incentives for businesses investing in sustainable technologies and practices. Understanding these opportunities will be key to building a competitive edge in a changing food system landscape.

Given Australia's position as a major food exporter, the strategy may also inform policies that affect access to international markets. Businesses involved in trade and export will need to stay informed about developments in this space.

Finally, the emphasis on community involvement reinforces the importance of consumer engagement. Companies that actively communicate their contribution to food security can strengthen customer trust and brand loyalty.

BCSDA invites stakeholders to engage with this process and contribute to shaping a resilient and sustainable food system.

About BCSD Australia 

The Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia is a non-profit organisation dedicated to operationalising sustainable development practices among Australian businesses.  BCSD Australia was established in Australia in 1991 and works with over 70 leading global businesses and other organisations to drive systemic transformation in key sectors, advocating for sustainable leadership and rewarding action through education, partnerships, and policy influence.

In 2014 the organisation was appointed Australia’s Network Partner for World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).

BCSD Australia’s members believe that by integrating social and environmental impacts with financial results, business lowers its risk profile, makes better decisions and creates the solutions needed to meet the Sustainable Development Goals.

BCSD Australia’s members include leading Australian businesses, from all sectors, who share a commitment to economic, environmental and social development. It represents member companies, public sector enterprises and institutions, BINGOs and community organisations, which in turn represent 120,000 + Australian employees. www.bcsda.org.au.

t:          +61 (0)2 8005 0780

m:        +61 (0)412 545 994

w:        www.bcsda.org.au

For further information contact: Andrew Petersen, CEO, Business Council for Sustainable Development Australia, +61 412 545 994