North Queensland agricultural market and supply chain study

Project locations: Townsville, Ayr, Charters Towers, Ingham, Palm Island

Project partners: Townsville Enterprise Limited ; NQ Regional Organisation of Councils (NQ ROC)

Project summary and impacts

This project examined North Queensland’s agricultural production capacity, supply chains and export potential to identify pathways for industry growth and increased participation in international markets. The research responded to a recognised need for coordinated industry action to transform the region’s agricultural, infrastructure and export sectors and position North Queensland to meet growing global demand for high-quality food and fibre.

The study assessed current production systems, market opportunities and supply chain capabilities across the region, while identifying barriers that constrain growth and export competitiveness. It included detailed market analysis and evaluations of production and supply chain opportunities, helping producers better understand future demand trends and the investments required to capture emerging market opportunities.

A key outcome of the project was the identification of more than $3 billion in unmet global demand across ten major agricultural export destinations for five priority commodities: beef, avocados, macadamias, onshore aquaculture products and soybeans. The research also examined opportunities to improve market access, address policy and regulatory constraints and align regional development priorities with the strategic objectives of government agencies including DFAT, Austrade and Trade and Investment Queensland.

The project highlighted the importance of a long-term regional investment strategy and greater collaboration across industries to support future growth. By providing a clearer understanding of market opportunities and supply chain requirements, the research established a foundation for coordinated investment and industry development across North Queensland.

The findings demonstrated the significant economic potential of the region’s agricultural sector, with successful industry expansion projected to support the creation of approximately 2,000 new jobs while strengthening North Queensland’s role as a major contributor to Australia’s agricultural export growth.