Government/Industry Fertiliser Supply Working Group Communiqué:
Fertiliser Supply Working Group Meeting – 1 May 2026
The Government/Industry Fertiliser Supply Working Group met for the fifth time on 1 May 2026.
Members were updated on progress toward establishing an Export Finance Australia (EFA) underwriting mechanism, including the development of detailed commercial arrangements to support Australian fertiliser importers to secure cargoes from alternative overseas suppliers. Members also discussed preparations for an importer information session to be held on 6 May 2026.
Members acknowledged the commencement on 30 April 2026 of measures to streamline biosecurity clearance processes, while maintaining appropriate safeguards, to support timely access to fertiliser imports.
The Working Group discussed international sourcing opportunities with a particular focus on agricultural urea, including updates on engagement with potential suppliers outside the Middle East region. Members supported the ongoing collaboration between government and industry to identify viable alternative supply pathways.
Members also shared broader market intelligence and operational updates, including current demand and logistical considerations, noting that the combined government actions underway are expected to contribute to meeting remaining seasonal fertiliser demand.
Attendees:
Australian Government members:
- Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Middle East Regional Conflict Taskforce - Chair
- Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Industry, Infrastructure and Environment Division
- Department of Industry, Science and Resources, Commercialisation Division
- Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Trade Resilience, Indo-Pacific Economic and Latin American Division
- Export Finance Australia, International and Commonwealth Engagement
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, Small Business and Agriculture
Industry members:
- Fertilizer Australia
- National Farmers’ Federation