Freshmark is warning that NSW’s fresh produce supply chain is under immediate threat, with some growers unable to send produce to Sydney Markets as rising fuel costs and freight disruptions impact the movement of food across the country.
Sydney Markets at Flemington are the biggest fresh produce markets in Australia, acting as a key hub for produce coming in from farms and out to consumers via retailers, food service providers, providores, restaurants and others. New South Wales relies heavily on interstate supply, with the majority of fresh produce transported from Queensland and Victoria. Any disruption to transport networks has immediate consequences for food access.
“We are seeing growers forced into decisions not to send produce interstate, and early signs of reduced supply into Sydney. If this continues, consumers will feel it through higher prices and reduced availability within months or even weeks,” says Freshmark CEO Meegan George.
“These are not future risks. This is happening now. As government considers how to support farmers and the agriculture sector through this crisis, it is absolutely crucial that the entire fresh produce supply chain is protected.”
Freshmark is calling on government to act urgently to:
- Recognise the entire fresh produce supply chain as essential infrastructure
- Guarantee priority access to diesel across the complete agriculture supply chain including central markets operators and transporters
- Provide immediate financial support to offset fuel and freight costs in the form of an emergency grant program
“This is about keeping food moving from farms to families,” Ms George says.
“The supply chain cannot fully absorb these costs. Without action, the impacts will be felt right across the economy.”
Freshmark is working closely with industry groups to ensure a coordinated response and is engaging with government to secure immediate support.
