Productivity the key this olive harvest
By Laura Thomas
Olive harvest is underway across Australia and as always, producers are working hard to ensure the very best return from their annual crop.
But as the shockwaves of ongoing conflict in the Middle East ripple across the globe, pressure continues to build on the bottom lines of small businesses everywhere.
Soaring on-farm costs and supply chain disruptions have presented another obstacle for farmers already doing it tough in the face of continuing climate challenges.
Australian olive growers have reported that the future availability and fluctuating price of fuel remains a significant concern.
The Australian Government is working to safeguard national fuel supplies and keep the country moving via its National Fuel Security Plan.
But the long-term impacts remain unknown and experts have warned the worst could be yet to come – for producers and consumers alike.
The AOA is here to help
Productivity is more important than ever as farmers continue to navigate the negative impacts of international conflict.
As the national peak industry body representing Australian olive growers, the Australian Olive Association is committed to ongoing industry education and supporting producers through all seasons – the ups and the downs.
To assist producers, a wealth of information is available on the AOA website, while members can also access exclusive content from the Members Lounge.
The theme of the 2025 National Olive Conference centred around productivity and profitability, providing olive growers with practical advice on growing a good crop, producing quality olives and running a successful enterprise.
The expert insight provided during the event is available to view on the AOA website and a great resource for any grower aiming to fine tune their operation and extract the most from their olive business.
Click here for speaker presentations and more.
Support for Australian small business
Access handy links and support services designed to get small businesses – and their owners – through these tough times.
Rural Financial Counselling Service
Support is always available to help farmers and producers experiencing financial or personal hardship.
The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) provides free and independent financial counselling to eligible primary producers and small businesses.
Call the national information line on 1300 771 741.
Mental health and wellbeing
There’s someone you can talk to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Image: Michael Thomsett.