12 June 2026

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Today's top story

The Health Star Rating doesn’t reflect the evidence for cooking oils – and it may soon be mandatory

Front-of-pack labelling systems like the HSR are designed to make healthy eating simpler, by guiding shoppers to a healthier choice. In many cases the system works, but when it comes to single ingredient foods like cooking oils, the HSR creates more confusion than clarity.

The Olive Wellness Institute is joining industry's call for a more evidence-aligned approach to edible oils. Read more.

Australia

Mandatory food star ratings are expected by 2027 – here's why that could be problematic

Responding to the nation's worsening rates of obesity, diabetes and public health concerns, health and medical bodies are pushing harder than ever for a standardised health star labelling to be implemented on all processed foods. 

Stop and check the facts this tax time

By Laura Thomas

The Australian Tax Office is warning Australians to stop and check the facts this tax time, as an increasing number of misleading tips and hacks circulate online.

Read on for handy links and industry-specific information to help business owners and workers this tax time.

Modern farming is outgrowing our tax system

Australia’s farmers are embracing new income streams to remain viable, but the nation’s tax system has not kept pace, according to new research released today by AgriFutures Australia.

Critics warn feral pig controls are failing, costing farmers more than $100m

After an extended dry spell, farmers across inland NSW are reporting significant damage to their paddocks due to feral pigs. 

Rain brings opportunities to weed out parthenium​

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has encouraged rural communities to be on the lookout for new parthenium weed germinations following recent rain.

AOA Classifieds

Got something to sell? Want to buy?

If you’ve got something industry-related to sell, you can reach your target market directly with our grower-to-grower service - AOA Classifieds.

Our online classifieds are an easy and inexpensive solution to advertising your unwanted equipment. And if there’s something you’re looking for, it’s the ideal way to get the message out loud and clear to your peers and industry associates!

Classifieds start from as little as $44 for AOA members ($110 for non-members) and are online now at www.australianolives.com.au/classifieds

For details, rates, or to create a classified, hit the button below.

NEW CLASSIFIED! Olio Mio 200 Olive Pressing Equipment, Jamestown SA

Alarm sounded after 300kg menace spotted on Aussie farm: 'Report immediately'

Australians have been warned to stay on "high alert" after a destructive pest was detected in a region critical to food production, previously considered beyond its range.

Locust numbers in Victoria's north-west reach highest level in 15 years

Locust numbers in Victoria's north-west are at their highest level in 15 years, as concerns grow that recent egg laying could lead to big swarms this spring.

International

Climate conditions key factor in olive oil quality: Study

Climate conditions such as temperature and rainfall play a decisive role in olive cultivation, while excessive heat and cold stress negatively affect both yield and quality, according to an analysis published in the Olive Research Institute Journal of Türkiye’s Agriculture and Forestry Ministry.

A very strong El Niño may be approaching. Here’s what it could mean for the world’s weather

El Niño is a recurring climate event with impacts across the globe. It has three phases: one cold (known as La Niña), one neutral, and one warm (El Niño).

Farmers: tell us how you’re coping with rising costs and extreme weather

From rising fuel, fertiliser and feed costs linked to the conflict in Iran to the impact of climate change, farmers around the world are facing a range of pressures. We want to hear how these challenges are affecting you.

Global olive oil rebound: Spain and Tunisia lead the 2026 market stabilization

Global olive oil production for the 2026 agricultural season is estimated at roughly 2.65 to 3.44 million tons. Spain leads global output by a wide margin, followed by rapidly shifting rankings of major Mediterranean producers like Tunisia, Italy, Turkey

Important turning point for returning to the use of enzymes in the mill

The global trend toward producing extra virgin olive oil from early-harvested olives has revolutionized the industry in pursuit of sensory and nutritional excellence. However, this practice presents significant technical challenges.

Olive oil from Lesvos: Economy, cuisine and culture

The story of olive oil from Lesvos, Greece stretches back through centuries of cultivation and production that strongly influenced the island’s economy, environment, and way of life.

An olive oil made in Patagonia is now being sold in the world capital of olive oil, and the story feels almost impossible

In Argentina’s Vaca Muerta, a place better known for oil wells, gas rigs, and dusty red ground, another kind of oil is getting attention.

Calendar 2026

13 July
Entries close, 2026 Royal Adelaide Olive Awards - hosted by Olives South Australia

www.theshow.com.au/competitions/olive-oil-table-olives

10 August

Entries open, WA Olive Awards

www.oliveswa.com.au

21 August

Entries close, 2026 Australian International Olive Awards

www.internationaloliveawardsaustralia.com.au

28 August

Awards presentation dinner, 2026 Royal Adelaide Olive Awards - hosted by Olives South Australia

Details to come


3 September

Entries close, WA Olive Awards

www.oliveswa.com.au

8 October

Awards ceremony, WA Olive Awards

www.oliveswa.com.au

Email Laura to have your event included.

Send us YOUR news!

Friday Olive Extracts brings the latest industry news and events direct to your inbox each week.

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For Friday Olive Extracts editorial and advertising enquiries, email Laura at comms@australianolives.com.au