Organics in Australia

According to the Biological Farmers of Australia, organic in Australia is gradually becoming established within the diet of households in the wider community. The BFA cites research forecasts that predict strong ongoing growth for the organic sector, enhanced market penetration and increased recognition and acceptance by consumers. “In Australia, we have always been very focused on preserving the integrity of organics while removing the mystery,” says BFA Director Dr. Andrew Monk. “The spread of people that consume organic in Australia is broad. Independent research commissioned by BFA in 2009 showed that over 30 % of organic consumers have an income below 40,000 AUS $ (about 26,000 €), demonstrating that organic is not adopted by only higher socio-economic groups."

"The appeal of organics has shifted to customers of mainstream households, with young children and active lifestyles - all consumers who demand a right to fresh, healthy and naturally produced food," Dr. Monk continues. Over half of Australian shoppers - six in every ten - now buy organic at least occasionally, and the availability of organic produce in a diverse range of retail outlets has grown. There are now even organic options in service station stopovers.
 
While the higher price of some organic goods is often cited as a deterrent to shoppers, Dr. Monk says that as organic items become more accessible from outlets ranging from farmers markets to major supermarkets, consumers will have more price options available to them. “An ‘exclusive’ sector does not serve the interests of either the industry or the consumer," according to Dr. Monk, who adds that price is not the only purchase decision factor for Australian organic shoppers. The organic industry in Australia is only just beginning to find its way, and there is a very promising road ahead. (Picture: Brisbane, Australia)

BFA