Banana growers swapped the paddock for Parliament House today, celebrating the 100% Australian-grown icon with banana-lovers from all sides of politics.  

The banana industry contributes around $1.3billion to the Australian economy, with around 5 million ‘meals in a peel’ consumed in the country every day. Right now, every one of those is grown in Far North Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.  

Paul Inderbitzin, Lakeland grower, said the ‘Celebrating an Aussie Icon’ event was a fantastic chance to bring a little of the farm to Canberra, showcasing just how much this industry means to regional Australia and to banana lovers everywhere. 

“It was great to be able to speak to decision-makers in person about the industry and its value to Australians. It’s important that they understand why we do it, and the sheer amount of time and investment that goes into delivering a safe, nutritious product for Australian families. 

“It was also important to give them perspective on the challenges we face right now, including the threat of imports from the Philippines.” 

Paul, who is the Banana Imports Committee Chair, said the biosecurity risks posed by importing bananas were simply too great, particularly when we have more than enough local supply, year-round.  

“We are fortunate to grow bananas in an environment that is free from some of the world’s most devastating banana pests and diseases. We want to keep it that way. 

“A new pest or disease not only puts banana growers at risk, it threatens supply chains and regional communities. Now, more than ever, we should be alert to the need for food sovereignty and this has the potential to put that at stake.” 

The event, held in the Senator’s Courtyard, was co-hosted by Senator Susan McDonald and Senator Anthony Chisholm.