Re-thinking agricultural supply chains in Northern Australia

Realizing the potential for growth and capitalizing on opportunities for Northern Australia requires effective supply chain networks. Agriculture is an important sector in the Northern Australian economy with significant production capabilities and the potential for creating national economic benefits. Northern Australia's fundamental supply chain deficiency constitutes the key source of comparative disadvantage the region faces, despite its significant resources, people and locational advantages. Drawing on reviews of several previous studies, critical analysis of the current value chain situations and consultations with key stakeholders, this article argues that there is a need to re-thinking agricultural supply chains in Northern Australia. Several issues impeding the connectivity between production and market require systematic consideration, including the priorities for Northern agricultural development, integrated supply chain planning, workforce shortages and skills gaps, supply chain infrastructure, capitalizing on Asian market opportunities, transport and non-freight subsidies, east-west and north-south supply chain hubs and improved coordination and collaboration. Corona Virus Disease-2019 has had serious impacts across the supply chains; therefore, re-thinking supply chains is crucial as the business as usual approach is not sustainable. It is now a critical time to re-think supply chains to address the challenges of developing effective and resilient Northern supply chains to enhance agricultural expansion and boost the national economy.