Australian Macadamia Industry: A Community Supported Regional Industry

Macadamia, a fine quality nut, is native produce of the sub-tropical regions of Australia. Though produced in the regional industry, Australian macadamia has attained a strong competitive position in the world with a 30% contribution to the world supply. Australian macadamia attracts a price premium over other origins and the weather, soil, and fine quality of species add to its global competitiveness. The Macadamia industry has established a unique example of collaboration among producers, supporting organisations and researchers. The Australian Macadamia Society Limited (AMS) is an association of 700 producer members who contribute to a $2 million annual fund to research improvement of productivity and quality of macadamia. The AMS helps members maintain industry relationships, promote sales, and improve farming practices. The industry is supported by some active organisations such as Macadamia Farm Management (MFM), Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA), and The Macadamia Conservation Trust (MCT). MFM assists the macadamia producers in land, water supply and granary management, property management, and investments planning. MCT is working for the protection and conservation of the native species of macadamias. Political support in the form of the free trade agreement of Australia with Asian countries and application of research for better yield is expected to strengthen the global competitive position of the Australian macadamia industry.