UPDATE: A groundbreaking initiative was just launched today, 20 November 2025, aimed at transforming food and fibre education across Australia. The new National Schools Food and Fibre Education Strategy marks an unprecedented collaboration among 15 rural research and development corporations, addressing a critical knowledge gap about the nation’s $80 billion food and fibre sector.
This urgent strategy comes in response to alarming statistics: nearly 80 percent of primary students cannot identify current dairy farming practices, while three-quarters of Australians reside in major cities, increasingly disconnected from food production. Experts warn that this lack of understanding threatens the future workforce and social license of the agricultural sector.
Troy Setter, CEO of Consolidated Pastoral Company, emphasized the significance of this strategy, calling it a “game-changer.” He stated, “By embedding food and fibre education in schools, we’re not just teaching kids where their food comes from; we’re opening doors to dynamic careers in agtech, sustainability, and global trade.”
The strategy sets an ambitious vision: to empower Australian students and educators to champion a sustainable and thriving food and fibre sector. It focuses on three key priorities:
1. Strengthening school–industry connections
2. Providing targeted support for educators
3. Securing government backing for curriculum development and infrastructure
Currently, food and fibre education lacks consistent traction in schools, with only 25 percent of educators finding it easy to access industry contacts. Misconceptions about limited career opportunities in agriculture persist, a belief this strategy aims to challenge.
This collaborative effort unites expertise across various sectors, including grains, livestock, dairy, horticulture, wool, and seafood. Together, these organizations will provide professional development for teachers and create curriculum-linked resources that connect students directly with modern food and fibre production.
With approximately 1.7 million Australians employed in the food and fibre sector, addressing workforce challenges is critical. Research indicates that personal connections with rural industries significantly enhance community trust, making school engagement essential to maintaining the sector’s social license.
The strategy was developed following extensive consultations, with over 900 engagement touchpoints involving teachers, principals, government representatives, and industry leaders across Australia from November 2024 to September 2025. Insights gathered during this period have shaped the priorities and actions outlined in the strategy.
Implementation planning is underway, including governance structures and a multi-year investment plan, expected to be released in early 2026. This marks just the beginning of a broader effort to engage students and educators, ensuring meaningful outcomes for schools and the agriculture sector.
By challenging outdated assumptions and showcasing diverse career pathways, this strategy aims to inspire young Australians to engage with an industry at the forefront of global challenges such as climate change, food security, and sustainability.
This initiative is a joint effort involving major organizations including AgriFutures Australia, Australian Eggs Ltd, Australian Meat Processor Corporation, Dairy Australia, and many more, all dedicated to fostering a new generation of informed and engaged citizens.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical initiative and its impact on Australian education and agriculture.
