The DAFF sought feedback on the development of a national Data Interoperability Framework to support agricultural traceability across Australia. The initiative aimed to:

• Establish shared data vocabularies, canonical models, and technical standards

• Support alignment with international frameworks (e.g., GS1 EPCIS, ISO, UN/CEFACT)

• Strengthen market access, compliance, and sustainability outcomes through consistent and trusted data flows

For GS1 members and the broader Australian industry, this work is highly relevant. A consistent, standards-aligned approach to traceability can reduce compliance burdens, streamline supply chains, and improve Australia's ability to meet growing demands for provenance, safety, and ESG transparency.

Key Documents & Links

• Consultation Paper and Framework

• DAFF Consultation Website

GS1 Australia Submission Summary

GS1 Australia strongly supports DAFF’s goal of a national interoperability framework and recommends leveraging globally adopted standards to avoid unnecessary complexity or fragmentation.

Key points from GS1’s submission include:

• Prioritisation of a vocabulary, data dictionary and canonical model is strongly aligned with GS1 standards, already widely used in agri-food sectors globally.

• The framework should be scalable, flexible and inclusive, supporting small producers and existing tools (e.g., Excel or sensor-based platforms).

• Adoption of GS1 Digital Link and Global Location Numbers is recommended to improve product provenance, transparency, and location referencing.

• Clear government direction, education and support are needed to overcome low awareness and ensure sector-wide uptake.

• The governance model should include technology providers and retailers as key stakeholders in adoption and implementation.

📄 Download GS1 Australia's Full Submission (PDF)