For the first time, the Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook (the Handbook) will include regional-level data, marking a major step forward in delivering more detailed and locally relevant insights for the horticulture sector. This enhancement is part of a new three-year project funded by Hort Innovation, with the 2024/25 edition of the Handbook scheduled for release in early 2026.

Widely regarded as the industry’s most trusted source of horticulture statistics, the Handbook consolidates data across production, international trade, processing, and fresh market distribution for more than 75 product categories. The inclusion of regional data will provide growers, industry and researchers with a clearer picture of the diversity and depth of horticulture across Australia - from fruit and vegetables to nuts and amenity products.

This update strengthens the Handbook’s role as a cornerstone for evidence-based decision making and validation of trends at a national, state, and more local level.

Brett Fifield, CEO at Hort Innovation, explained what this means for the industry: “The inclusion of regional data in the Hort Stats Handbook is a game-changer. It allows us to better understand the nuances of production across Australia and tailor strategies that reflect the realities of growers in every corner of the country.”

“Robust and trusted data is the foundation of good decision-making. This project ensures that our industry has access to the insights it needs to grow sustainably, compete globally, and respond to emerging challenges with confidence.”

Hort Innovation has appointed Freshlogic (now part of Kynetec) to deliver the 13th series of the Handbook.

James Finlay, Senior Commercial Director, ANZ at Kynetec, added: “Through our partnership, Freshlogic and Kynetec combine global expertise with deep local knowledge. Adding regional data to the Hort Stats Handbook means we can better reflect the realities of growers on the ground and deliver insights that support evidence-based decisions at every level. Kynetec’s strength in producer insights and understanding production issues ensures the data is grounded in the real challenges and opportunities facing growers.”

To support the development of more detailed and regionally accurate statistics, Kynetec and Hort Innovation are inviting grower contributions to help shape the resource and ensure it reflects the realities of production across Australia. We are asking growers to complete a short questionnaire (around 3-5 minutes), which helps calibrate and validate yield estimates in specific regions. As a thank you, those who contribute will receive a snapshot of wholesale and retail market pricing of a nominated category from the past month. If you’re happy to get involved, you can click the survey link here, to complete the questionnaire. If you have any questions, please contact Violet Edwards at violet.edwards@horticulture.com.au.