Onions are one of the largest crops within the Australian vegetable industry, with annual production of more than 250,000 tonnes. They are also one of Australia’s top three vegetable export commodities. The Australian onion industry has a long history of strong representation by peak industry body Onions Australia, which was established in 1966 and merged with AUSVEG in 2023. The Onions Australia organisation was established to bring the onion industry together to provide information regarding:
  • Minor use permits
  • Chemical usage
  • Export opportunities and market access
  • Pest and disease updates
  • Research updates
  • Grower walks and information days
  • Industry communications
  • Advocacy including onion imports
Today AUSVEG continues to honour that commitment to Australian onion levy-paying growers, who as a result of the merger, have access to an expanded suite of resources and benefits, including:
  • Expanded voice: AUSVEG’s dedicated public affairs team and its strong network with Federal Ministers and various government departments ensure that onion industry members’ interests are represented with vigour.
  • Increased access to services: Onions Australia members can now take advantage of AUSVEG’s diverse resources in advocacy, public affairs, political engagement, communications, extension, biosecurity, and export development.
  • Enhanced brand presence: The Onions Australia brand will continue to flourish, with its specific content and services maintained in industry publications and online.
AUSVEG also currently delivers a range of onion R&D levy-funded projects relating to industry-specific communications and extension, as well as the Multi-Industry Export Program, in partnership with Hort Innovation.

Reg Miller Award

The Reg Miller Award recognises those who have made significant contributions to the onion industry. AUSVEG is proud to maintain the legacy of this award, with the names of past award winners included below, and future winners to be added as they are confirmed. Learn more

Onion production in Australia

The majority of Australian onions are grown in South Australia and Tasmania principally for domestic use. Boasting a production of more than 250,000 tonnes at a value of $332.7 million, the onion sector is a significant contributor to Australian horticulture.