The Global Alliance (GA) is a coalition of international leaders who have agreed to work together on the prevention, detection and disruption of food crime.
In December 2025 representatives from the United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland, and New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries travelled to Sydney Australia where they were hosted by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) in progression of the Global Alliance on Food Crime (GAFC). Joined virtually by representatives from the US Food and Drug Administration and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (who endured the lengthy late-night discussions due to time zones), the group discussed progression of current joint activities and continuing collaboration in line with the GAFC Strategic Objectives.
During the two-day event, DAFF accepted the roles of Chairperson and Secretariat from Ron McNaughton of Food Standards Scotland who has carried this responsibility since 2021. The GAFC membership would like to acknowledge Ron’s contributions over the years, and the enduring support provided by Food Standards Scotland. Ron continues in his membership position within the GAFC providing support and guidance to the new Chairperson, Murray Bell (left in photo).
Following the GAFC event, DAFF showcased their regulatory capabilities focused on the department’s Imported Food Inspection Scheme, and broader biosecurity/agricultural remit, which included presentations from the Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police / INTERPOL. The group obtained an enhanced understanding of Australia’s operating environment.
The Global Alliance on Food Crime page on the FAN website has also been updated with member country information.
The GAFC can be contacted by emailing GAFC.Secretariat@aff.gov.au
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