TL;DR: The Australian cattle industry focuses on sustainable practices, supporting communities and wildlife. Research and strict regulations highlight our environmental efforts, and we engage with stakeholders to improve and meet international standards.
Proud of Our Industry
The Australian cattle industry is proud of the safe, nutritious red meat we produce. This supports our communities and contributes to global food security. Our focus on sustainable and productive landscape management highlights the link between healthy environments and successful agriculture. Well-managed natural resources and livestock production go hand-in-hand.
Strict Regulations and Reforestation
Australia has some of the world’s strictest vegetation management regulations. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization ranks Australia second in the world for reforestation. Between 2010 and 2020, Australia saw an average net gain in forest area of 446,000 hectares per year.
Koala Population and Land Management
Research from the University of Queensland shows that 95% of Queensland’s koala population lives on beef cattle properties. This demonstrates that well-managed landscapes support both agriculture and wildlife. Effective land management also helps manage natural disasters, weeds, pests, and diseases, ensuring ecological health and positive biodiversity outcomes.
Environmental Performance
One of our industry’s key tasks is showcasing our environmental performance. This commitment led to the creation of the Australian Beef Sustainability Framework (ABSF) in 2017. The framework communicates our sustainability efforts.
Clarity and Market Access
The ABSF identified the need for clarity on terms and definitions affecting market access and environmental outcomes. With greenwashing becoming a global issue, it is crucial for producers and the supply chain to demonstrate their good work and meet market requirements. Clear definitions ensure data is used correctly, which is a priority for our industry.
Continuous Improvement
Our industry is committed to growing and improving our understanding of how beef production interacts with landscapes and ecosystems. Best practices in agriculture contribute to positive environmental outcomes.
Engagement and Collaboration
We are actively engaging with stakeholders from within and outside the sector. This effort aims to develop a national framework aligned with international reporting requirements. We welcome sensible and respectful discussions that lead to better outcomes for landscapes, animals, biodiversity, food security, and communities in Australia and globally.
