26 June 2026

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Today's top story

Health Star Rating submission guide for olive growers

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is currently conducting a survey regarding a potential mandate for the Health Star Rating (HSR) system. The current HSR algorithm is fundamentally flawed when it comes to edible oils, often penalising pure, natural Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) over highly refined seed oils.

The Australian Olive Association is making its own submission, but every submission counts in ensuring our industry isn't unfairly penalised by a rigid unfit algorithm. To make it as easy as possible for you to lodge an official response by July 5 and protect our industry, we have put together a submission guide.

This guide highlights the most critical survey questions and provides draft wording you can copy, adapt, and use for your own business submission.

Follow this link to access the guide, more information and lodge your submission.

Australia

Oil health star ratings don’t stack up

One of the world’s most researched health foods is being outranked by cheaper, chemically processed seed oils under a proposed mandatory Health Star Rating system.

What a strong El Niño could mean for Australian communities, jobs and food prices

Climate models are now confidently projecting the world will experience a very strong El Niño weather event this year. For Australia, this Pacific Ocean phenomenon means we are likely to see hotter and drier conditions for the rest of 2026 and into 2027.

Oasis Olives wraps up another season

The olive oil mill at Oasis Olives fell silent this week, after months of near-constant processing, marking the end of another successful season for one of the Goulburn Valley’s most decorated producers.

Farmers unable to access mental health care, new data shows

Just one in seven farmers can easily access mental health support, new data presented at this morning’s NFF-Suicide Prevention Australia (SPA) Parliamentary Breakfast reveals — even as psychological distress and exposure to natural disasters climb sharply across the sector.

New traceability grants to strengthen agricultural trade

The Australian Government is delivering support to farmers and agricultural exporters, with 10 new grants that will enhance Australia’s agricultural traceability systems to share in $4 million.

The grants will support industry to grow its trade relationships, and enable more effective responses to biosecurity and food safety incidents.

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.

Calls for vigilance across agriculture as second bird flu case confirmed

Preparedness and vigilance are the strongest tools Australia's farmers have to combat the impacts of the H5N1 strain of bird flu, detected for the first time on our shores over the weekend.

Farmers ac community members are being urged to stay alert and report any sick birds or animals to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Farmers say absentee landholders hindering battle to control feral pests

Farmers battling feral pests are calling for landowners who do not live onsite to participate in management programs.

Under the NSW Biosecurity Act, anyone who owns land is obligated to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases.

International

Ancient olive grafting techniques gain new relevance amid climate and disease pressures

Once used mainly to domesticate wild trees, grafting is re-emerging as a key tool for fighting disease, adapting to climate change and preserving rare olive varieties.

Why fresh olive oil is a culinary cultural trend

People look for better ingredients to use in their kitchens, and a major change is happening right now in the world of cooking oils. Freshly pressed olive oil is capturing the attention of home cooks and professional chefs. 

Olive oil producers in India are trying to compete with imports

India is developing its own olive oil production industry, although the market still remains heavily dependent on imports.

The Mediterranean secret of health captured in a bottle

The compounds of olive oil explain part of the benefits associated with one of the healthiest diets in the world

UK produces first extra virgin olive oil as farmers race to adapt to changing climate

The milestone comes as climate change disrupts traditional olive-growing regions across the Mediterranean, driving up prices as demand for premium olive oil continues to grow.

Olive oil: Turkey expects record crop

Turkey’s olive crop is set to reach a new record this year. This is also expected to boost exports. EU olive oil exports have fallen by 10% this season.

Olive growing to the test of the 2026 climate

Olive growing in northern Italy: reduced temperature ranges, tropical nights, and ecophysiological stress. How olive tree management is changing.

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