A new initiative to elevate Indigenous agricultural products and practices is calling for contributions to help shape the framework.
The Indigenous Agricultural Product Framework project is being delivered in partnership between the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC) and the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF).
NFF President David Jochinke said the project was step in a journey towards identifying, recognising and celebrating the unique agricultural practices and products of Indigenous people and communities.
“Importantly, this project and its outcomes will be driven by Indigenous knowledge and thinking, including about what constitutes an authentic Indigenous agricultural product.
“At this project’s core is increasing recognition and empowering Indigenous people in agriculture to strengthen their economic opportunities now and for future generations.”
The project represents a unique opportunity to agree what overarching characteristics and principles must be included in claims about Indigenous agricultural products.
It will also provide an evidence base about the current value of Indigenous agricultural products, and the potential economic and community benefits of being able to identify and promote Indigenous agricultural produce, in both the domestic and export markets.
Lastly, the project will make recommendations about creating a framework, including credential systems or structures that could be put in place to support claims about Indigenous agricultural products.
“We need many voices to contribute so we can create an authentic, robust and clear framework,” Mr Jochinke said.
“We invite stakeholders, especially from Indigenous communities, to contribute to defining what makes an Indigenous agricultural product truly authentic. Whether it’s the production method, the producers, the location, the nature of the product, or anything else – your voice is essential.
“Together we can start building a framework that respects and promotes Indigenous agricultural heritage and opens doors to new opportunities for generations to come.”
One-on-one stakeholder consultations are already underway with further engagement and input from the sector encouraged.
Further round-table consultation sessions will begin in April to help build agreement on what overarching characteristics and principles must be included in claims about Indigenous agricultural products, as well as test the findings to date.
To acknowledge and recognise the contributions to this important project, eligible stakeholders will be offered an honoraria for their time, effort and sharing of knowledge in this space.
To express your interest in consultation opportunities and to stay updated on the developments, click here.
