Federal Government extends international airfreight program

Another $240 million will keep access open to key export markets for red meat, seafood and fresh produce.

FARMERS are assured key export routes will remain open, as the Federal Government extends its airfreight export program.

Another $240 million will go into the International Freight Assistance Mechanism, locking in about $3 billion in agricultural exports through to the end of the year.

The scheme, first announced in April, has ensured exporters struggling to access airfreight can keep operating.

Global travel bans due to the COVID-19 crisis have meant there was limited freight space available, with produce usually travelling in the bellies of passenger craft.

The Government scheme set up dedicated airfreight routes to more than 50 locations including in China, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and the Middle East for primary producers, with the costs subsidised.

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the scheme had been a “lifeline” for farmers during the pandemic.

The program has already seen more than 36,000 tonnes of red meat, seafood and fresh produce exported over 1800 flights.

More than 400 of those have left from Victoria, carrying 5258 tonnes of Victorian produce.

Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said with travel restrictions likely to continue for the foreseeable future, the program was restoring global supply chains for exporters.

“Victorian produce including lamb, dairy and vegetables such as carrots, asparagus and beetroot are in strong demand thanks to its reputation for quality, safety and reliability,” Mr Birmingham said.

“This funding extension will provide ongoing certainty for Victorian exporters who rely on airfreight and will help to protect the tens of thousands of jobs of those who rely upon our export sector.”

Australian Fresh Produce Alliance chief executive Michael Rogers said it was a welcome boost for Australia’s fruit and veg exporters.

“We need to expand efforts to consolidate regular orders for small exporters to ensure as many farmers as possible benefit from the program,” Mr Rogers said.