Fruit and vegetable producers across the Upper Hunter have contributed to a record‑breaking year for Australia’s horticulture sector, with new data showing both domestic value and export sales have surged.
The latest Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook reveals the industry generated more than $18 billion in value over the 2024–2025 season, marking a six per cent increase on the previous year.
Exports also recorded their strongest performance on record, rising 13 per cent to $3.5 billion as global demand for Australian produce continued to grow.
Head of Industry Insights at Hort Innovation, Lucy Noble, said the results highlighted the sector’s ongoing resilience despite rising operational costs and external market pressures.
“The data shows the horticulture industry continues to scale up,” she said.
“Growers are adapting, innovating and delivering high‑quality produce despite the challenges.”
The Upper Hunter’s mix of crop varieties and expanding supply chains has played a role in the broader national gains, with producers in the region benefiting from strong seasonal conditions and rising export opportunities.
