What is it all about?

This project aims to strengthen the Australian papaya industry’s understanding of market supply dynamics by collecting production figures from the main growing areas of North Queensland. By tallying data from both the tablelands and coastal region and working with transport companies to report weekly pallet movements to major eastern seaboard markets, the project will estimate weekly production volumes in tonnes (with each pallet representing approximately 800kg of fruit). This will enable levy payers and industry stakeholders to accurately identify actual production figures across North Queensland. The initiative will also explore opportunities to extend data collection to Western Australia and the Northern Territory, which together account for around 15% of national production. 

For growers, this investment will deliver regular, transparent reporting on production trends, enabling more informed decision-making around harvest timing, market targeting, and supply planning. Improved visibility of supply volumes will help the industry better anticipate market fluctuations, support more stable pricing, and underpin strategic marketing and production decisions. Ultimately, the project will empower growers and supply chain stakeholders to align supply with demand, manage risk, and maintain market stability throughout the year.