The fertiliser will be delivered under an agreement between Incitec Pivot Fertilisers and Indonesian producer PT Pupuk Indonesia, supplying around 20 per cent of Australia’s remaining fertiliser needs for the current season.
For growers across Victoria’s cropping regions, the timing is critical as nitrogen decisions are made for cereals, canola and pasture.
The National Farmers’ Federation said the extra supply would help restore confidence after months of uncertainty driven by international conflict, constrained shipping and high input prices.
NFF president Hamish McIntyre said access to in‑season fertiliser had been one of the biggest concerns raised by farmers.
“Securing additional urea provides much‑needed certainty as growers prepare winter crops,” Mr McIntyre said.
“But it only fills part of the gap as supply remains tight and costs remain high, which continues to place pressure on farm businesses.”
The Federal Government confirmed it supported the deal through cooperation with industry and the Indonesian Government, alongside other steps including the establishment of a fertiliser supply working group, underwriting fuel and fertiliser imports, and streamlining border approval processes.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said locking in supply was critical for farmers making planting and management decisions.
“We understand how important fertiliser is for Australian farmers and our food production system,” Mr Albanese said.
“This agreement will give farmers greater certainty at a crucial point in the season.”
Incitec Pivot president Scott Bowman said the additional urea, scheduled to arrive between May and December, would help shore up supplies distributed through the company’s national network, including into Victorian farming regions.
“While there is more work to do to fully meet farmers’ requirements this season, this additional volume will go a long way to supporting critical supply,” Mr Bowman said.
Despite the relief, farm groups warned the deal highlights Australia’s ongoing vulnerability to global supply shocks.
NFF said fertiliser and fuel volatility continued to threaten farm profitability and the viability of regional businesses.
Mr McIntyre said longer‑term investment in domestic capability was needed to ensure growers were not left exposed in future seasons.
“Farmers need reliability and certainty to keep producing the food and fibre Australians rely on,” he said.
