National Soil Action Plan 2023 to 2028
This is the first of four action plans to be developed under the National Soil Strategy, released in 2021. It was endorsed by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on 28 November 2023 with the support of all state and territory jurisdictions.
Priority actions
The action plan sets out 4 priority actions. These guide the focus and design of support to action on soil by governments at all levels and partners over the next 5 years.
All priority actions are linked to the 3 broader goals of the National Soil Strategy:
- Prioritise soil health
- Empower soil innovation and stewards
- Strengthen soil knowledge and capability
Explore the different soil-related programs and projects by priority action below.
Priority action 1
Develop an agreed national framework to support measurement, monitoring, mapping, reporting and sharing of soil state and trend information to inform best practice management, decision-making and future investment.
Priority action 2
Partners to develop a holistic policy and strategy approach where soil function is recognised, valued and protected for the environment, economy, food, infrastructure, health, biodiversity and communities.
Priority action 3
Accelerate the adoption of land use and management practices that protect soil and improve soil state.
Priority action 4
Identify and develop the soil workforce and capabilities needed for current and future challenges for Australia and the region.
Implementation
The Australian Government is committed to ongoing cooperation, collaboration, and co-investment with its partners to protect soils and improve soil health.
To support the implementation of the National Soil Action Plan, 17 projects across states and territories will deliver on one or more of the priority actions of the action plan. These projects will strengthen Australia’s soil health and provide security for the future productivity and sustainability of Australia’s agriculture industry. More information is available on the partnering to implement the National Soil Action Plan page.