The harvesting of seed potatoes is well underway in all seed-growing regions of Australia. South Australia and Victoria produce the majority of the seed potatoes.
"Seed can be transferred between all states with the exception of Tasmania and Western Australia. Seed is allowed to move from Tasmania to the mainland and Western Australia to the eastern states, however, seed in those two states must start from mini tubers and be grown out. All potato seed in Australia is transferred using the Australian seed certification system," explains Richard Haynes, National Account Manager at Elders.
Potato planting
Fresh potatoes are currently being planted in South Australia and Queensland, and some early processing lines are also being planted. "Most potato planting will start in late July, early August, but Australia is one of the few countries that can plant and harvest potatoes on the same day every day of the year, ensuring the consumer gets fresh potatoes every day of the year.
While Queensland and New South Wales have had horrible floods, the main potato growing regions of Australia, South Australia, and Victoria are experiencing severe droughts. This has led to seed production yield being reduced, and seed is getting short and harder to purchase if you don't have a supply agreement. If Ballarat, which relies heavily on rainfall and dams, experiences another winter with little rainfall, there may be a significant shortage of potatoes produced from this region at the beginning of 2026."
Harvesting
All southern states are currently harvesting seed, fresh, and processing potatoes, while Queensland is just about to start planting. "The growing conditions have been dry for the majority of the season, which has led to reduced yields through smaller seed.
"Yields are down, which has led to a short supply of seed, with one of the main varieties being impacted being White Star. Demand is still solid for fresh market and convenience potato products is a growing market. The ready-to-go market, while extremely small, is following the overseas trend; it is happening, but due to our relatively small population, it's taking time due to the huge investment required in equipment."
For more information:
Richard Haynes
Elders
[email protected]
