So who's responsible for the food industry?

I am highly entertained to discover that the food industry now has two federal government ministers looking after it. Apparently Senator the Hon Joe Ludwig, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, is looking after policy and Senator the Hon Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, is looking after strategy. Or it may be the other way around - go figure.

A completely anonymous government official assures me:

Under current government arrangements, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) deals with matters relating to the agricultural, fishing and food industries, as well as to food security, policy and programs. The Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research deals with matters relating to manufacturing and commerce including industry and market development, and food industry policy.

DAFF currently administers three programs that provide grant funding to food manufacturers and processors and related industry groups.

The Regional Food Producers Innovation and Productivity Program aims to assist the regional food industry to improve productivity and profitability through innovation in processing and value-adding.

The Promoting Australian Produce program is assisting industries, in particular those facing increased import competition such as those producing fruit and vegetables, pork and seafood, to better promote and market Australian produce to domestic and export markets.

The Promoting Australian Produce (Major Events) program assists with the staging of major national events that facilitate exchange of information and promotion of Australian agricultural products and services along the supply chain.

Further information on these programs is available at http://www.daff.gov.au/agriculture-food/food.

All I can say is good luck.