Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers (QFVG) has released a new report outlining the economic value of the state's horticulture sector for 2024–25. The Economic Contribution of the Queensland Horticulture Industry 2024–25 report estimates the sector's farm-gate value at $4.61 billion, compared with $4.08 billion in 2020–21. The report states that horticulture contributes more than $6 billion annually to the state economy and supports close to 45,000 jobs.
© QFVG
According to QFVG Interim CEO Joe Moro, the data reflects the scale of the industry's economic role and its influence in regional areas. Queensland produces around one-quarter of Australia's fresh fruit and vegetables and leads national production in bananas, pineapples, ginger, avocados, and strawberries. Its range of growing climates enables a year-round supply.
The report also outlines resource efficiency metrics, noting that horticulture uses around 10 per cent of the state's irrigation water and 3 per cent of its land while accounting for 40 per cent of Queensland's irrigated agricultural value. QFVG says growers continue to operate under rising production costs, labour shortages, and regulatory requirements.
Regional Queensland accounts for nearly 88 per cent of horticultural activity. Wide Bay, Cairns/Mareeba, and the Toowoomba–Darling Downs regions recorded the largest contributions. The sector directly employs 20,768 people, with another 24,078 supported through supply chains, and 16,860 seasonal roles created during peak harvesting periods.
QFVG says the report will support industry representation in discussions on workforce access, supply chain stability, and policies affecting farm viability.
© QFVGFor more information:
QFVG
Tel: +61 (0) 7 3620 3844
Email: [email protected]
www.qfvg.com.au
