AFGC Virtual Briefing Room: Federal Budget — Economics, Numbers & Political Signals
AFGC Virtual Briefing Room: Federal Budget — Economics, Numbers & Political Signals
Thursday 14 May 2026 - Online
1:00pm to 2:00pm AEST
The Federal Budget is more than a bottom line, it’s a statement of priorities, pressure points and political trade-offs. In the third instalment of the Virtual Briefing Room, Scott McGrath (Director – Stakeholders, Engagement and Policy) is joined by Samuel Garcia (Manager, Economics and Insights) to break down:
- The headline numbers: what they say about the economic strategy and constraints
- Winners, losers and watch-outs: where the Budget choices land and what the FMCG sector needs to consider
- The politics behind the Budget: what’s moved, what’s been parked, and what’s coming next
Expect a practical, straight-talking discussion designed to help members interpret both the economic settings and the political momentum behind them.
Scott McGrath
Director, Stakeholders, Engagement and Policy
Australian Food and Grocery Council
Scott McGrath is the Director of Stakeholders, Engagement and Policy at the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC).
He leads the AFGC’s engagement with government, industry and media, advocating for policies that support a strong and sustainable food and grocery sector.
Scott brings a strong background in political offices and in state and Commonwealth government roles, giving him deep insight into government processes and jurisdictional challenges.
A skilled communicator, he translates complex technical issues into clear messages that influence decision-making and public understanding.
Scott also oversees the AFGC’s media relations, raising the industry’s profile and driving advocacy on key issues affecting members and consumers.
Samuel Garcia
Manager, Economics and Insights
Australian Food and Grocery Council
Samuel Garcia is an economist with experience across industry and government. He leads economic analysis of Australia’s FMCG sector, providing insights that support policy development and engagement with government and industry stakeholders. His background in applied economic research and hands-on industry work gives him a practical perspective on how economic and policy decisions affect businesses.