Littlepround: Agriculture jobs essential to Australia

Paul Brescia
Agriculture Minister David Littleproud says Australia’s food production and supply chain will not be affected by coronavirus shutdowns.

“The Commonwealth is guaranteeing food production and supply as we deal with the virus’s spread,” Minister Littleproud said.

“I am in constant dialogue with farming groups, the States, supermarkets and my department to make sure there’s food on the table for all Australians.

“As far as the Commonwealth is concerned, food production and supply is an essential service.

“Feeding our nation is an essential service.

“That means State-imposed border shutdowns will not affect agricultural supply chains.

“The trucks carrying food and produce will get through to the shops.

“Feed, hay, fertilizer and other agriculture products will continue being delivered to farms.

“We’ve got plenty of supply and the freight lanes across the country are being kept clear.

“Australians can be assured that their farmers will be able to keep producing the great food they’re renowned for the world over.

“This food will arrive fresh and on time at their local supermarket the same as it’s always done but they don’t need added pressure of senseless hoarding. Australians should stay calm and know Australian agriculture will be there for them.

“Maintaining food production, access to workers, agricultural supply lines, transportation and logistics is absolutely critical and will not be affected by any of the measures aimed at curbing the virus’s spread.” 
NEWS
March 23, 2026
Australian farmers choose Bioflora for real results: sustainable roots, soil‑and‑plant biology that works, and a company genuinely committed to supporting growers’ season after season. 
March 22, 2026
Adding hectares isn’t the only business growth strategy for farmers. Smarter landforming can recover margin, improve efficiency, and deliver quicker returns — whether automation is on your agenda or not. 
March 9, 2026
As sheep producers adopt electronic identification, many are focusing on systems that keep work flowing in the yards and deliver value beyond compliance. For producers, the real benefit of EID is simple: faster yard work, more reliable reads, and cleaner flock records — all without adding extra steps. 
March 9, 2026
Regional Australia Bank is helping innovative farmers unlock productivity, diversify income, and build stronger regional businesses. 
March 5, 2026
As consumer expectations evolve, the need for safe, fresh, and sustainably produced food will only intensify. BOC and Elgas are at the forefront of this transformation, providing the gases, energy, and expertise that make paddock-to-plate possible. From boosting productivity on farms to ensuring the highest standards in packaging and preservation, their solutions empower Australia’s food industry to thrive—today and into the future.
March 5, 2026
When heat, rising input costs, and water scarcity collide, protecting yield becomes even more critical for growers. In that context, growers are prioritising proven products and technologies that reduce risk and perform under Australian conditions. 
Show More