Agriculture, Food and Australia’s National Security: Preparing for an Uncertain Future

Operational preparedness is not an unfamiliar concept to farmers. Preparing for business as usual, factoring in some variation, is a part of the job. But in a world of increasing climate, trade, and biosecurity risk, business as usual is changing and the need for preparedness is rapidly evolving. Now, the consequences of geopolitics are accelerating that evolution in a way not seen for generations.
 
Those responsible for the defence of our nation say that we are now faced with the highest level of strategic risk since the end of the Second World War. Critical challenges associated with supply chains, sustainability, technology, biosecurity, and how we as humans adapt must all be considered against this backdrop of unprecedented risk.
 
You will leave this session with a greater understanding of the challenges this represents for Australian agriculture and the broader community, the opportunities that might exist if we prepare ourselves well and a clearer perspective on the role of agriculture and food production in Australia’s future.

About Andrew: 

Andrew Henderson is a leading strategic policy specialist with a passion for building the sustainability and prosperity of rural and regional Australia and enhancing the recognition of its role in the economy and its place in national security. Andrew is the Independent Chair of the Safemeat Advisory Group and the Jurisdictional Traceability Group and is a member of the national Sheep and Goat Traceability Taskforce. Andrew has been heavily involved in reforming Australia’s livestock traceability and integrity systems since 2017, and has advised the Commonwealth government on biosecurity, red meat and livestock, Northern Australian development, and climate change. As the Principal of Agsecure, Andrew’s mission is to support industry and government to understand each other and work better together for the benefit of the nation, working across private enterprise, industry, not-for-profits, and governments. Andrew is also a published author on biosecurity, food security, national security, agricultural supply chains and other matters of national interest.