Unpredictable weather has challenged Australia’s 2023 olive harvest. Extended cold and wet periods across key growing regions shortened ripening cycles and reduced yields, according to the Australian Olive Oil Association. Despite smaller volumes, oil quality remains exceptional, with producers adapting to global shortages and shifting export opportunities.

The International Olive Council (IOC) has recently updated its trade standard, which sets the world’s benchmark for olive oil quality. These standards are what laboratories and authorities use to decide if an oil is “extra virgin”, “virgin” or “lampante” and whether it can be sold in export markets. In June 2025, the European Union formally supported a series of major testing changes at the 121st IOC Council of Members meeting. These changes ..

We are pleased to announce that Riccardo Buffatello has joined The Olive Centre as our new Industrial Machinery Technician, further strengthening our technical service and support offering for olive growers and processors across Australia.