AMPC Innovation Showcase, Brisbane 10–11 September, 2025

 

The Australian red meat processing industry broke three of its own environmental performance records this past year, thanks in large part to practices driven by new technologies and innovation.

The industry is coming together in Brisbane for the second Australian Meat Processor Corporation (AMPC) Innovation Showcase, where processors, researchers and supply chain participants will gather to talk about how the industry is improving global competitiveness and productivity, while reducing its environmental impact.

The red meat sector includes beef cattle, sheep, goats and buffalo. The processing industry is a major contributor to the Australian economy. It currently supports the employment of more than 189,000 people and generates more than $25.4 billion in direct and industry value adds.

The two-day Showcase event will bring together more than 400 delegates to look at how red meat will be processed in the next decade, and how technology can help make it safer, more sustainable and more efficient.

The program reflects the growing role of innovation in securing food supply, reducing climate impact and shaping the future of work in regional communities.

AMPC’s interim CEO Edwina Toohey says rigorous research and development is driving incredible innovation in the red meat processing industry.

“Our latest industry Environmental Performance Review showed industry broke three records last year: lowest intensity results for greenhouse gas emissions since reporting began in 1998; industry’s lowest water intensity; and the highest water recycling levels. Environmental improvements have also massively shifted, with bioenergy now having taken over from coal as the second most used thermal energy source.

“Those incredible results come at the same time as tech, AI and innovation are opening the industry to a broader workforce, creating even better-quality products and delivering world-leading food safety outcomes. This showcase will give delegates a chance to see the best ideas and meet the best minds in the industry.”

Headlining the conference is Niels Duedahl, CEO of Danish Crown, who will outline how one of the world’s largest farmer-owned meat companies is deploying automation, robotics and sustainability strategies to modernise meat production in Europe. His session will explore how innovation can improve worker safety, cut costs and respond to consumer demands for climate action and traceability.

The Showcase will also hear from Jamila Gordon, CEO of Lumachain, on the role of artificial intelligence in transforming supply chains, alongside Australian processors presenting case studies on water reuse, automation and initiatives to create inclusive, higher-skill workplaces.

Edwina Toohey says the Showcase will be an exciting look into the future of the industry.

“The Showcase will demonstrate how robotics, AI and practical R&D are being turned into everyday practice, from reducing energy and water use to creating opportunities and attracting new talent in regional plants. It shows how innovation can help industry and the environment at the same time.”

Delegates will also be able to join optional tours of CSIRO’s Coopers Plains facilities and Earlee Products, and will experience the launch of AMPC’s Knowledge Hub, a new resource translating research into practical industry tools.

The program includes the announcement of the first AMPC Awards of Excellence.

“Our processors are finding new ways to reduce emissions and improve efficiency,” Ms Toohey says.

To view the full program of speakers and demonstrations, visit https://www.ampc.com.au/showcase25/program