Australia’s four organic certification bodies have agreed on a national strategy to double the value of certified organic horticultural production by 2035.
The Organic Horticulture Research, Development and Innovation (RD&I) Strategy 2026-2035 sets out research and investment priorities for the sector, with a focus on productivity, innovation and supply chain resilience.
The strategy marks the first time ACO Certification Ltd, Bio-Dynamic Research Institute, Organic Food Chain and Southern Cross Certified have aligned on a coordinated national research agenda that covers organic horticulture.
According to Australian Organic Limited (AOL), certified organic horticulture contributes about $2.6 billion to the Australian economy.
Southern Cross University developed the strategy through the Hort Innovation Frontiers program, with AOL and the four certification bodies providing co-investment.
Over 11 months, more than 100 stakeholders across the supply chain contributed to the process, which identified 36 RD&I initiatives covering research and technical solutions for organic production.
Southern Cross University professor Terry Rose said the consultation process identified research gaps. These gaps could inform future investment and commercialisation decisions.
“This strategy creates a practical roadmap for industry, research and government to work together to unlock the sector’s potential,” AOL CEO Jackie Brian said.
Proposed initiatives include nutritional and residue-profiling studies, as well as biological pest control research. They also include a national database of organic-compliant biological products and support for growers transitioning to organic production systems.
The investment priorities are intended to address supply shortages in categories such as berries, avocados, and fresh vegetables. They also target export opportunities in Asia and the Middle East, while addressing climate impacts, biosecurity risks and supply chain disruptions.
The next stage involves establishing an industry-led Organic Horticulture RD&I Working Group to coordinate research and investment programs during implementation.
AOL has opened an expression-of-interest process for founding members of the working group. Applications are open to participants across the supply chain, with submissions closing on June 30.
