Introducing our new Chair of the AIBC Food & Agriculture Industry Group: Dr John Ackerman
As the new Chair of the AIBC Food and Agriculture Industry Group, I’d like to share a few thoughts on what we’re aiming to build, following Garry Embleton’s leadership, who has been the Chair of this group for some years — and invite your input as we build momentum for the year ahead.
My focus is simple: to ensure this group delivers real value to AIBC members working across the food and agri-food sectors. That means listening to industry, connecting people, and building a platform that supports collaboration, support, and importantly, outcomes.
We’re starting with four key steps:
1. Building a National Committee.
We will be establishing a small advisory committee with representatives from across Australia’s states and agri-food industries — seeking leaders from across relevant commodities, e.g., livestock, dairy, grains, sugar, fisheries, and horticulture sectors, but also those from the value-added food sector. This group will help shape our priorities and give voice to the diversity of food and ag interests between both countries.
2. Strengthening Engagement and Advocacy.
Indonesia’s food security and nutrition agenda is evolving rapidly. We’ll be working with industry bodies and government agencies in both countries to reinforce Australian products are well positioned — not as competitors, but as valuable partners in achieving shared goals.
3. Hosting Events.
We plan to hold a series of industry events — both virtual and in-person — to explore trade opportunities and policy changes. The goal of which will be to assist in building increased understanding of requirements and opportunities, but importantly, to build member’s networks. All with the goal of showcasing Australia’s strengths in nutrition, food production, and sustainable supply chains.
4. Lifting Our Voice.
We want the Food and Agriculture Industry Group to become a recognised voice in Australia–Indonesia trade. That includes sharing insights, policy updates, and case studies of Australian success in Indonesia, and using our platform to grow membership and industry engagement.
These are ambitious goals — and they’ll only be achieved through active member involvement.
If you have ideas, experience to share, or would like to play a role (big or small), I would love to hear from you. This group is here to serve our members, and together, we can help build a stronger, more connected agri-food relationship between Australia and Indonesia. Contact John at food.ag@aibc.com.au
