Department of Agriculture (Australia, 2013–15)


The Australian Government Department of Agriculture was a federal government department charged with the responsibility to develop and implement policies and programs that ensure Australia's agricultural, fisheries, food and forestry industries remain competitive, profitable and sustainable.
The head of the department was the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, initially Paul Grimes and then Daryl Quinlivan. The Secretary was responsible to the Minister for Agriculture, the Hon. Barnaby Joyce.

Overview

Department of Agriculture policies and programs:
The department was formed by way of an administrative order issued on 18 September 2013 and replaced the functions previously performed by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

Preceding departments

The department facilitated the development of self-reliant, profitable, competitive and sustainable Australian farm businesses and industries. Through consultation with industry, the department develops and implements policies and programs that help to assure product safety and integrity. Particular emphasis is placed on on-farm risk management that relates to food safety.