Report: A systems thinking approach to Australian agrifood

Australia’s agrifood sector is one of the nation’s greatest strengths. It produces enough food to feed up to 75 million people and supplies 93% of the food Australians eat. The sector supports regional communities, drives export income and manages more than half of Australia’s land area.

However, major challenges are growing. These include climate resilience, water security, energy transition, supply chain disruptions, trade pressures and workforce shortages. Australia also exports much of its agricultural output as commodities, limiting opportunities to create higher-value products at home.

This report shows how a systems thinking approach can help address these complex challenges. Rather than working in isolation, industries, governments and communities can align their efforts around shared goals.

Drawing on more than 100 consultations, international case studies and cross-sector research, the report finds that Australia’s main barrier is not a lack of investment or expertise. Instead, fragmented governance, disconnected data and weak coordination limit progress.

The report recommends stronger partnerships, shared missions and better pathways for adoption. It also delivers practical tools, including a 10-step systems thinking framework, an AI-enabled Systems Intelligence Portal prototype, an interactive system map and a stakeholder directory. These resources support coordinated action, innovation and long-term growth across Australian agrifood.