Australia’s certified organic sector has surpassed A$1bn (US$710m) in annual direct sales for the first time, driven by higher retail spending and a rise in exports, according to new industry research.
The Australian Organic Market Report 2026, published by industry body Australian Organic Limited (AOL), valued domestic retail sales and exports at A$1.02bn in the 2024/25 financial year.
Domestic certified organic retail sales for take-home consumption reached A$657.6m, up 11.9% year on year. Certified organic exports were valued at up to $364m.
AOL CEO Jackie Brian said this week the results showed “strong consumer demand” for organic products and “significant untapped potential”.
She added: “Certified organics is already a substantial Australian industry, with domestic retail sales growing almost 12% and Australian organic exported to more than 40 markets around the world but the bigger story is the opportunity still in front of us.
“For farmers, certified organic production provides an opportunity to build healthier soils, protect biodiversity, strengthen animal welfare outcomes and support human health, while accessing premium markets and connecting with consumers that recognise, value, and reward those practices.”
The report’s findings come amid ongoing cost-of-living pressure. AOL said that, despite prices rising broadly in line with the wider food industry, volume, buyer numbers and purchase frequency increased while discounting activity fell.
AOL flagged an “integrity loophole” in the Australian market, with some consumers confused by non-certified products carrying “organic” claims. AOL argues this reinforces the case for clearer regulation and labelling, to help shoppers identify certified organic products and maintain trust as the category expands.
The industry body said there are “barriers holding the sector back”, including limited processing capacity and the absence of a nationally consistent domestic regulatory framework for organics.
According to AOL, Australia has close to half the world’s certified organic land base, which the non-profit believes is “a huge platform for growth”.
Brian added: “The A$1bn figure is worth celebrating but it should be viewed as a foundation rather than a ceiling.”
The report is the tenth edition of AOL’s national market study, which combines government figures, retail purchasing data, consumer research and industry surveys, the organisation says.
