The long-term security of Australia’s soil has been mapped out in a national action plan to guide investments and partner activities over the next five years.
The government has identified climate change as a focus area for the action plan, alongside prioritising soil health, empowering innovators and stewards, and strengthening knowledge and capability.
In a statement, agriculture, fisheries and forestry minister Murray Watt said the plan was key to the government’s climate ambitions and the future of Australia’s agricultural industry.
“As the first action plan under the 20-year national soil strategy, it is important that we build on the great initiatives that have already occurred in soil management and set solid foundations for future actions to improve soil health,” Watt said.
“Soil type, usage and challenges are highly variable, so management of this national asset requires practical, localised planning and responses.”
The 2023-28 action plan was developed in consultation with federal and state and territory governments and is the first such document under the National Soil Strategy, which was published in 2021.
Natural Heritage Trust money via the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program — a total of $36 million — has been allocated by the government to implement the plan. This will include establishing a soil monitoring initiative, improving the Australian National Soil Information System, continuing the efforts of the regional soil coordinators, and supporting a national soil community of practice.
Watt said it was critical to have a comprehensive approach to a national asset like soil because its sustainability affected other critical parts of society including the economy, food security, infrastructure, and regional communities.
“The action plan is supported by $20 million announced in the 2023-24 Budget for bilateral partnership agreements with the states and territories to deliver locally appropriate activities.
“These activities provide clear and measurable progress against the four key priorities of the plan,” he said.
The four priorities of the national action plan include developing:
- An agreed national framework to support the measurement, monitoring, mapping reporting and sharing of soil state and trends information, to inform best management decision-making and future investment in soil;
- A holistic policy and strategy approach where soil function is recognised, valued and protected for the environment, economy, food, infrastructure, health, biosecurity and communities;
- Accelerating the adoption of land use and management practices that protect soil and improve soil state and trends; and
- Identifying and developing the soil workforce and capabilities needed to meet current and future challenges for Australia and its region.
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