Last week I was standing in a feedlot in Lampung, Indonesia in my new role as Australian Agriculture Trade Diversification Representative for the National Farmers’ Federation. 

I was struck by the similarities of agricultural production between Australia and Indonesia. 

While there are different operating contexts, the opportunities and challenges are very often the same. A focus on improving animal welfare, health and safety, sustainability and staff development, all while managing economic, market and seasonal conditions, were front of mind. 

This highlighted that trade delegations and in-country visits provide a unique opportunity to learn from each other and share our knowledge and experiences and provide the basis for securing strong and ongoing partnerships.