GS1 Australia, a not-for-profit standards organisation, is establishing an industry-led National Traceability Advisory Group. This group will provide advice on global standards for trade and traceability based on industry need and aligned with the role of government to ensure Australian industry maintains and builds sustainable capability, international market access and global competitiveness.
Marcel Sieira, chief customer officer at GS1 Australia, said: “The primary objective of the advisory group is to inform GS1 Australia on the requirements of industry and government for traceability standards. The group will play a key role in communicating, educating and co-defining a roadmap with industry and government for implementing end-to-end traceability and trade modernisation in Australia.”
GS1 Australia will provide the secretariat support for this industry group, as well as expert advice.
Ram Akella, business partner focusing on product traceability with the Woolworths Group, has been appointed chair of the advisory group.
Woolworths Group has been participating in shaping the National Traceability Framework and has taken a leadership position in demonstrating new ways to enable full traceability from the farm to the store.
“Global supply chains are continually being tested. This has been made more evident through recent, unprecedented events such as the global pandemic,” Akella said.
“Australian industry is well-positioned to lead and leverage the next wave of transformation and innovation in global and domestic markets based on enhanced traceability and trust.
“This transformation will require all sectors of industry and government to align on open global identification and data standards. The Advisory Group is a key step in bringing together key industry stakeholders from all sectors of the economy and segments of our supply chain who share a common interest in enhancing product traceability.”
Invitations to key industry and government stakeholders are being sent out to join the group. To register your interest, please visit GS1 Australia’s website.
