Regions
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The dairy sector is an industry of critical importance to the Great South Coast Region. Despite recent challenges with global milk markets, which have depressed prices and placed uncertainty over the industry, it remains a sector with strong long-term growth prospects.
Sheep and beef farming enterprises are also of significant importance to the Great South Coast region. The average value of beef production in the Great South Coast is very high, underpinned by grass- fed production and high value cattle varieties. The sector represents a significant opportunity because of the strong demand for Australian red meat in export markets and the flow-on benefits to the food processing sector. The Hamilton Red Meat Innovation Centre also demonstrates some of the flow-on economic activity and jobs associated with the industry. The region’s aquaculture sector has strong long-term growth potential. Growing demand for Australian high-value seafood products (such as abalone and rock lobster) and advancement in aquaculture technology both signal potential for the sub-sector to thrive in the region. The pig and poultry industries represent a significant opportunity to grow the value of output from small land holdings through intensive, high value production. The Barwon region’s wine industry is a driver of economic activity, and also an important part of the region’s visitor economy. The wine sector, along with the gourmet foods sector could leverage the Barwon South West’s significant tourism assets and visitation. The existing forestry supply chain positions the region to capitalise on increasing global demand for wood fibre and to grow into a world-leading sustainable forestry hub. There are a number of emerging crops in Australia that represent an opportunity for the region. These crops include hemp, cannabis, legumes, and poppies. |