The Victorian climate, being very similar to that of the Mediterranean, with long hot summers and cool winters with some frosts, is exactly the climate the olive tree prefers. As a consequence, although Victoria was a late starter in the current resurgence of the olive industry, it is rapidly catching up as trees reach production age. There are examples of olive trees of up to 140 years of age in some areas of the state such as the north east. Current plantings are reasonably uniformly distributed across the state.

The Victorian grower profile is also very different from other states, with a very high preponderance of corporate growers. In north-west Victoria are a number of such large growers including one single grove with over 900,000 trees - one of the largest in the world.

As a consequence of the later start to the Victorian industry, trees are relatively younger and on average are around 5 - 6 years old. Consequently the Victorian crop is poised to be significant but is relatively young on the world scene. There are currently about 3m olive trees planted in Victoria, being about 30% of the national total. This represents an investment of over $280m. Most trees are irrigated and are using advanced management systems.

Because of the use of technology, careful tree selection, and advances in harvesting processes, most olive oil produced will be high quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil which exceeds the International Olive Oil Council standards for this product. This level of quality will ensure that Victoria will be well positioned to take advantage of export sales as well as capturing a share of the national market.

The Victorian olive industry includes all elements of the value chain from nurseryman to consumer. The objective is to meet or, exceed global standards at each point in the value chain which comprises:

• Fruit Production
• Fruit Processing
• Product Manufacture
• Marketing, Distribution and Sales
• Consumer Purchase

 

The Victorian olive industry comprises no less than eight substantial growers which are each corporate entities. There are eight regional associations serving the needs of smaller growers and located throughout the state.

While many of the larger growers have their own processing facilities, a significant number of independent fruit processors are also producing extra virgin olive oil at a number of locations. In addition there are processors focusing on fresh fruit for sale in a variety of forms. Victoria is able to process all the product likely to be available in the near future. Capacity will grow to meet demand.

Product from Victoria is marketed internationally in a significant number of countries, as well as in supermarkets, specialty outlets and grove direct sales around the state and nationally. Victorian olive products continue to win awards both nationally and internationally and the industry is becoming a significant contributor to Victoria's world famous food products globally.

Action Plan Now available

The Victorian Olive Industry Sector Action Plan 2006 - 2009 is now available. Thanks to Regional Development Victoria - Food Group for their funding and support together with the assistance of M Corp consulting.