Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has secured approximately 90,000 tonnes of agricultural-grade urea in a major move aimed at strengthening Australia’s food production and supporting farmers amid global supply disruptions.
The shipments form part of the government’s new Strategic Reserve arrangements designed to stabilise fertiliser availability following ongoing international market pressures linked to conflict and supply chain volatility.
The Government has partnered with Export Finance Australia, CSBP and Incitec Pivot to facilitate the purchase and distribution of three initial shipments of fertiliser into the domestic market.
Albanese said the move would provide certainty to farmers during a period of global uncertainty affecting key agricultural inputs.
“We’re backing Australian farmers and producers during this time of global uncertainty,” Albanese said.
“We know how critical fertiliser is for the sector, which is why we’re securing important additional shipments like this.”
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the additional supply would help farmers continue planting with confidence.
“Underwriting additional shipments of fertiliser is about ensuring our farmers can continue producing the food we all love and rely on,” she said.
The announcement builds on a previously secured 250,000 tonnes of fertiliser sourced through Indonesia, as part of broader efforts to diversify supply chains.
Trade Minister Don Farrell said the government was acting to protect the agricultural sector from global disruptions.
“Our hard-working farming communities can be assured that we will leave no stone unturned to help secure the inputs needed.”
Industry Minister Tim Ayres said the initiative was part of a broader push to strengthen Australia’s economic resilience.
The government also confirmed it is progressing further discussions with industry partners to expand fertiliser imports and distribution capacity under the Strategic Reserve framework.
In addition to fertiliser, the government highlighted wider supply security measures including increased fuel imports and a new $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility aimed at boosting long-term storage and supply stability.
Officials say the measures are designed to ensure farmers have consistent access to essential inputs, supporting both domestic food production and Australia’s export commitments.
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