Our portfolio

We represent national interests across agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.

We are a large and diverse portfolio. This includes agencies, statutory and non-statutory bodies, independent advisors and industry representatives.

Our minister

Senator the Hon Murray Watt is Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Find out more about our minister.

Our department

Our role and functions are diverse. Find out more about what we do.

Agencies and statutory bodies

Each operates under their own legislation.

Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA)

AFMA ensures that Commonwealth fisheries are well managed.

Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)

The APVMA reviews and registers pesticides and veterinary medicines. They regulate these products up to the point of retail sale.

Forest and Wood Products Council (FWPC)

The FWPC operates as the Forest Industry Advisory Council. They advise the minister on forestry issues.

Regional Investment Corporation (RIC)

RIC administers loans for farm businesses and small businesses.

Statutory office holders

Each office holder is independent. They have duties and functions assigned under relevant laws. These are outlined on their websites.

Inspector-General of Biosecurity (IGB)

The IGB provides assurance over Australia’s biosecurity risk management systems through independent evaluation and verification of our biosecurity system.

Inspector-General of Live Animal Exports (IGLAE)

The IGLAE reviews the performance of functions and exercise of powers by us in regulating livestock exports under the:

  • Australian Meat and Livestock Industry Act 1997
  • Export Control Act 2020

Rural research and development

Rural research and development corporations allow the Australian government and primary producers to co-invest in research and development (R&D). This benefits industry and regional communities.

There are 15 RDCs in total:

  • 5 Commonwealth statutory bodies
  • 10 industry-owned companies

Non-statutory bodies

These bodies:

  • facilitate the development of national responses to agriculture, fisheries and forestry issues
  • help to inform policy, programs and activities
  • advise the minister on certain issues

Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting (AMM)

AMM consists of Australian and state and territory agriculture ministers. They work collaboratively on national issues relating to the agriculture sector, including fisheries and forestry. Read the AMM communiques.

Industry consultative committees

These committees discuss agriculture industry issues. They focus on our regulatory and service delivery functions.

Other companies

We provide funding to not-for-profit companies. This includes:

The Australian Government is a shareholder in AHA and PHA.

Governance roles

For available board positions, see:

Agriculture portfolio skills database

We also keep a register for board, council, committee and task force memberships. Our boards play a vital role in ensuring Australia’s rural industries.

These roles are for the agriculture sector.

To register:

For more information email balance@agriculture.gov.au or phone 1800 900 090.

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