NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION POLICY STATEMENT - October 2021 - Department of Agriculture
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Department of Agriculture,
Water and the Environment
NATIONAL
AGRICULTURAL
INNOVATION POLICY
STATEMENT
October 2021
National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement
MINISTER’S
FOREWORD
© Commonwealth of Australia 2021
Ownership of intellectual property rights
Unless otherwise noted, copyright (and any other intellectual property rights) in
this publication is owned by the Commonwealth of Australia (referred to as the This national agricultural innovation policy The digital platform is growAG – where the
Commonwealth). statement is an important part of the world can see what we are doing in research
Australian Government’s National Agricultural and development. GrowAG will entice the world
All material in this publication is licensed under a Creative Commons Innovation Agenda that I announced in to come and invest in Australia and show we
Attribution 4.0 International Licence except content supplied by third parties, September 2020. It takes another step in the are ready for their investment.
logos and the Commonwealth Coat of Arms. journey of modernising our research and
The eight Innovation Hubs are our physical
development system.
platform and there are over 40 locations
Inquiries about the licence and any use of this document should be emailed to A world class agricultural innovation system across Australia. They provide a ‘shop
copyright@awe.gov.au. is an Australian Government priority and a front’ where farmers, industries, RDCs and
key pillar in Delivering Ag2030 that supports agribusiness can connect to researchers and
the industry’s target of $100 billion sector by experts. There is a lot of good research being
2030. Our job is to put the environment and done and the Innovation Hubs will focus on
framework around our researchers, farmers, translating research for our farmers and
Cataloguing data fishers, and foresters and let them do what provide an avenue for them to be part of the
they do best. co-design process – aligning research effort
This publication (and any material sourced from it) should be attributed as:
with what is needed on the ground. These
DAWE 2021, National agricultural innovation policy statement, Department of Agriculture Innovation Australia (AIA) is an
Innovation Hubs will also provide a place
Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Canberra, August. CC BY 4.0. exciting new vehicle to drive a cross-industry
where our best and brightest of regional and
approach to innovation and harness the power
rural Australia can be part of agriculture.
ISBN 978-1-76003-437-5 of all 15 rural Research and Development
Corporations (RDCs). AIA is not only about If we are going to grow Australian agriculture
This publication is available at awe.gov.au/innovation. the RDCs but will work with the private to $100 billion, we must be able to assist
sector to attract investment and bring in our farmers to adopt the latest research and
new perspectives and players to agricultural technology. Innovation will drive productivity,
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment innovation. That is why the Australian meaning more dollars in the pockets of our
GPO Box 858 Canberra ACT 2601 Government committed $2.8 million to AIA to farmers and stronger regional communities.
Telephone 1800 900 090 develop investment prospectuses.
Web awe.gov.au
These investment prospectuses will have
Disclaimer a focus on four priority areas – exporting
agricultural products, championing climate
The Australian Government acting through the Department of Agriculture, resilience, biosecurity, and digital agriculture. The Hon. David Littleproud MP
Water and the Environment has exercised due care and skill in preparing and The four priorities will also provide a way for Minister for Agriculture and
compiling the information and data in this publication. Notwithstanding, the all innovation participants to collaborate. Northern Australia
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, its employees and
advisers disclaim all liability, including liability for negligence and for any Key to driving innovation has been to develop
loss, damage, injury, expense or cost incurred by any person as a result of a digital platform and a physical platform.
accessing, using or relying on any of the information or data in this publication
to the maximum extent permitted by law.
01 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 02
TABLE OF National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement
CONTENTS
Growing importance of agricultural innovation 05
Our vision for Australia’s agricultural future 07
National agricultural innovation priorities that will guide us 09
Agricultural reforms: what we are already achieving 11
Agricultural reforms: what we still need to undertake 17
Key participants in the agricultural innovation system 19
Monitoring and evaluation of our success 21
Attachments: Agricultural Innovation Priorities 23
Previous reviews 27
03 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 04
GROWING IMPORTANCE OF
AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION
Innovation plays a crucial role in primary production and Even so, agricultural industries are productivity growth of 0.6% per year drive efficiencies and greater uptake
still being challenged by factors in the 15 years to 2019-20. This is of our innovation efforts.
the post-farm supply chain of Australia’s agricultural such as increasing international significantly slower than the average of
system. It is through continued investment into competition, resource limitations, 3.6% per year from 1989-90 to 2004-05. To enable this, the innovation system
needs to effectively allocate and
Research, Development and Extension (RD&E) that technological disruption, climate
RD&E is needed to help Australian encourage public and private RD&E
variability, increasingly complex supply
Australia has been able to establish itself as a major chains, threats from pests and disease, agriculture overcome these cross- investment so that the technology and
contributor to global food and fibre production. Now, and water scarcity. sectoral challenges and assist the tools are available for our farmers to
industry in meeting its target of $100 continue to produce the best food and
with agricultural industries facing unprecedented This has caused productivity growth billion in output value by 2030. To fibre in the world.
changes, innovation has never been more important. in Australian agriculture to become ensure that investment is effective
sluggish in recent years. Figures from we need to drive the greatest returns,
ABARES has shown average annual improve transparency of outcomes and
For the past four decades our
sector has benefitted from public-
private research partnerships, most 1989–90 to 2004–05 | 3.6% per year 2005–06 to 2019–20 0.6% per year
notably through commodity-based Agriculture, Forestry
140
and Fishing MFP Index
Rural Research and Development (1989–90 to 2019–20) 130
Corporations (RDCs). The CSIRO,
universities, Cooperative Research
Centres, state and territory 1 Figures from ABARES
average annual
120
MFP Index, 2018-19=100
1 = 10 1
productivity growth was 110
government research agencies More than 0.6% per year in the 15
50%
and private sector entities have also years to 2019–20. This 100
made significant contributions to is significantly slower
than the average of 90
agricultural innovation.
Australian agricultural $1 of public $12 benefit 3.6% per year from
80
1989–90 to 2004–05.
Research from the Australian productivity growth has investment in for Australian
70
Bureau of Agricultural and Resource been attributable to agricultural farmers within
Economics and Sciences (ABARES) RD&E investments. RD&E 10 years 60
has shown that investment in RD&E 50
pays productivity dividends. More
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
99 99
20 00
20 01
20 2
20 03
20 04
20 05
20 06
20 07
20 08
20 09
20 10
20 11
20 12
20 13
20 14
20 15
20 16
20 17
20 18
20 19
0
-9
-9
-9
-9
-9
-9
-9
-9
-9
-0
-2
than half of Australian agricultural
-
0
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
00
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
-2
19
19
19
19
19
19
19
19
19
19
productivity growth has been
19
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
attributable to RD&E investments.
05 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 06
OUR VISION FOR AUSTRALIA’S Our vision for Australia’s agricultural future
AGRICULTURAL FUTURE
We are providing national leadership and driving improvements by targeting five
To be a strong, vibrant and pillars of reform through the National Agricultural Innovation Agenda
collaborative agricultural sector
01 02 03 04 05
where our producers are empowered Strengthening Improving the balance Embedding Empowering our Creating a next
leadership, cohesion of funding and world-class regions to achieve generation innovation
to adopt the latest science, technology and culture
through clear
investment to deliver
both incremental
innovation practices
through greater
greater uptake of
innovation
platform by improving
the foundations
and tools. This will improve how they strategic direction
and increased
and transformational
innovation, and
transparency and
entrepreneurship
of agricultural
innovation,
collaboration growing private sector including data and
operate, making our food and and international
investment
regulatory settings
fibre systems more competitive,
prosperous and sustainable.
The policy statement provides accountability and transparency to achieve this vision
Detailing new National Setting out how we will deliver Providing guidance on the
Agricultural Innovation and monitor implementation system through its many
Priorities to drive collaboration of the National Agricultural participants, organisations
and focus investment Innovation Agenda and structures
How we will know we
have achieved our vision
More farmers, industries
and businesses adopt Private and foreign
research outcomes, investment in Australian
including through research and agricultural
faster commercialisation technology development
of products increases
Rural research and Collaboration across
development investments the agricultural innovation
are optimised, maximising system is improved
productivity improvements and results across the
and ensuring the long-term innovation sector are
prosperity of the Australian maximised
agriculture sector
07 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National
National
Agricultural
Agricultural
Innovation
Innovation
Policy
Policy
Statement | 08
Statement
NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL National Agricultural Innovation Priorities that will guide us
INNOVATION PRIORITIES THAT Australia by 2030
WILL GUIDE US PRIORITY 1 PRIORITY 2
We have established four
ambitious targeted priorities Trusted exporter of premium food and Champion of climate resilience to
agricultural products increase the productivity, profitability and
based on the key challenges sustainability of the agricultural sector
Australia’s agricultural This will: This will:
innovation system needs to Amplify Australia’s reputation as a trusted exporter of
high-quality products
Protect and enhance our natural capital assets (for
example, water and soil health)
address by 2030. Deliver greater returns to farmers and processors and Expand the use of varietals and genetics that thrive
increase the value-add to products under future climate scenarios
They will help to align efforts, enable Australian agriculture to Protect our food and agricultural products through Improve efficiencies along the value chain to increase
embrace strategic opportunities, and set a stronger culture that adoption of enhanced biosecurity and technology profitability and productivity, and reduce emissions
supports and encourages effective collaboration and action to
Provide market and consumers confidence in the Improve the ability of the sector to respond to external
address innovation for the public good. provenance, quality and safety of Australian products factors (for example, climate, technology disruptions,
current and future pandemics, and trade requirements
Our targeted priorities replace the National Rural Research, Enable value-add to Australian agricultural or disruptions), including by utilising new technologies
Development and Extension Priorities established through commodities and ingredients on-shore. and tools
the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper. The priorities
Increase on-farm resilience by improving management
acknowledge stakeholder feedback to keep them specific and practices and skills and diversifying income streams.
targeted to drive investment.
Through the priorities, there is an opportunity to grow the total
PRIORITY 3 PRIORITY 4
funding pool through new collaboration, engagement of non-
traditional participants and greater private sector participation
to drive increased efficiency and greater impact of innovation
on farms. A positive outcome of this is an innovation culture
that is more dynamic, encourages entrepreneurship and a more
open approach to risk taking. This will better position our future World leader in preventing and rapidly Mature adopter, developer and exporter
agricultural innovation system within the global landscape and responding to significant pests and of digital agriculture
lead to improved outcomes for farmers. diseases through future-proofing our
biosecurity system
The four new National Agricultural Innovation Priorities
provide a way for all innovation participants to collaborate This will: This will:
to achieve a more profitable, productive and sustainable Accelerate efforts to create a strong, future-oriented Mean having the people, skills, systems, data, digital
agricultural industry. and efficient national biosecurity system technology and connectivity to deliver a productivity
increase
Roll out advancements in detection technologies and
capabilities including on-farm and in supply chains Mean becoming a leading developer and exporter
of agritech
Enhance on-farm biosecurity practices, product
traceability and supply chain integration Reduce the barriers to the digitalisation of Australian
agriculture
Expand biosecurity assurance arrangements,
intelligence, research and data sourcing and sharing Drive the adoption of digital agricultural solutions
available to end-users across the agricultural industry
Generate greater shared responsibility through
improved awareness and understanding Grow the value of Australian food and fibre through
innovation and technology adoption.
Lift national preparedness, response and resilience to
significant pests and diseases.
09 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 1010
AGRICULTURAL REFORMS: Agricultural reforms: what we are already achieving
WHAT WE ARE ALREADY ACHIEVING
It’s important to acknowledge the
significant progress that we have
made together in maintaining
innovation in agriculture.
ESTABLISHMENT OF AGRICULTURAL
INNOVATION AUSTRALIA (AIA)
Established Agricultural Increasing the accountability
Innovation Australia to and transparency A core component of the innovation agenda has been the
facilitate joint investment requirements of the RDCs establishment of AIA – a not-for-profit, public company
and collaboration in cross- to ensure they remain
industry agricultural issues consistent and adaptive to established by the 15 RDC’s in 2020.
of national importance the needs of stakeholders Its aim is to facilitate joint investment and collaboration in cross-industry
agricultural issues of national importance.
The establishment of AIA is evidence of the significant need to shift
investment toward transformational and cross-sectoral outcomes, increase
flexibility of investment across the system and encourage new collaborations
and global partnerships.
AIA will identify, develop and invest in strategies that address shared
Supported the development Extended and supported the challenges. It will also seek out opportunities to deliver outcomes that drive
of R&D outcomes platforms adoption of new knowledge and sustainability, productivity and profitability across Australian agricultural
to attract investment and technology (generated through value chains.
commercialisation partners R&D) to farmers and other end
from Australia’s private users by establishing Innovation
sector and around the world Hubs across Australia AIA attracts investment from public, private, not-for-profit and global
commercial entities to deliver agricultural innovation initiatives.
11 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 12
Agricultural reforms: what we are already achieving Agricultural reforms: what we are already achieving
EXTENSION OF KNOWLEDGE AND
INCREASING ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY
TECHNOLOGY TO FARMERS AND END USERS
Our Rural Research and Development To shift the balance from monitoring compliance
towards demonstrating outcomes from For knowledge and technology to achieve the best results,
Corporations model is unique and RDC investment, there are five interlinked research outcomes must be extended to and adopted by
held in high regard both in Australia performance principles: farmers and other end users.
and overseas.
It offers industry an opportunity to invest
01 Stakeholder engagement: engage
stakeholders to identify RD&E priorities
However, the main challenge preventing this in the past has been a complex
extension model (i.e. system of communication channels) for private consultants,
through levy collections and is matched by and activities that provide benefits to agribusiness and input suppliers, and local grower groups to communicate and
government funding, which the government portfolio industries. share information.
intends to continue.
The commodity-focus of Australia’s rural sector,
02 Research, Development and Extension
activities: ensure RD&E priorities and
This is why in April 2021 we invested $66 million from the Future Drought Fund
in Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs to simplify and enable the
reflected in industry structures and the RDC activities are strategic, collaborative free flowing exchange of information.
system, is a source of strength. It means that and targeted to improve profitability,
many challenges and issues can be tackled productivity, competitiveness and The eight Innovation Hubs are located in regional areas that reflect the key
at the right level and with the highest chance preparedness for future opportunities and agricultural and climate zones. Their collective aim is to bring together farmers,
of success. But the commodity arrangements challenges through a balanced portfolio. industry, agribusiness and communities so that they can connect with drought
also bring trade-offs – it can be more difficult resilience expertise and contribute to the design of innovative technologies
to align strategy, resources and activity across 03 Collaboration: undertake strategic and
sustained cross-industry and cross-
and practices. Each hub includes nodes throughout their region, providing an
multiple organisations, and it is difficult to assess Australia wide footprint of over 40 locations for delivery of support.
the impact of the collective. In the absence of a sectoral collaboration that addresses
shared challenges and draws on experience Each hub has been designed to respond to the specific needs and conditions of
strong collaborative culture, the commodity focus
from other sectors. its region and are tasked with translating research into impact through a focus
placed less emphasis on the large scale, cross
on development, extension, adoption and commercialisation. In doing so,
cutting and transformational issues.
04 Governance: governance arrangements and
practices to fulfil legislative requirements
they enable better leveraging of existing tools and initiatives across government
To ensure the RDCs continue to succeed into the and industry.
future and demonstrate value to the levy payer and align with contemporary Australian
best practice for open, transparent, and In addition to drought, the Innovation Hubs strive to ensure agricultural
and tax payer, the government is increasing
proper use and management of funds. research is useful and accessible to create greater impact and opportunities
stakeholder transparency, removing duplication
to commercialise R&D. Many of the RDCs are or will be key partners of the
and driving commercialisation by working
with the RDCs and industry to put in place an 05 Monitoring and Evaluation: demonstrate
positive outcomes and delivery of RD&E
Innovation Hubs to collaborate with regional networks.
accountability framework. benefits to Levy Payers and the Australian
We will work with the RDCs and industry community in general, and continuous We have committed to Innovation Hubs that
organisations to develop three products: improvement in governance and broaden the activities that will deliver outcomes for
administrative efficiency.
• Guidelines for mandatory statutory funding
agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries, in addition to
agreements that will have KPIs against the five delivering outcomes for drought resilience from the
principles for increased commercialisation Future Drought Fund investment.
• Best practice guide to stakeholder engagement An additional $20 million has been provided to
• Best practice guide to commercialisation expand them into Innovation Hubs.
To support grassroots activities, our Drought Resilience Innovation Grants are
available to many innovation organisations, the private sector, industry, not-for-
profit organisations and community groups to develop drought resilience projects
to assist farmers and communities to adapt and transform. The Future Drought
Fund has allocated $34.2 million for Drought Resilience Innovation Grants. They
are available to support development, extension, adoption and/or early stage
commercialisation activities.
13 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 14
Agricultural reforms: what we are already achieving Agricultural reforms: what we are already achieving
Case Study | growAG Bringing commercialisation of R&D to the world
Australia’s 15 Rural Research & As more insects are developing resistance to
traditional insecticides, Australian farmers need
Development Corporations, led more weapons in their arsenal to control pests
by Agrifutures, and the Australian effectively. The project set out to harness the
Government have joined forces to “natural enemies” of insect pests by encouraging
create growAG, the gateway beneficial insects to establish, and to develop
biological controls that could be deployed
to Australia’s agrifood together with chemical solutions.
innovation system.
The products developed by the project, based on
grow is a free, easy-to-use, single source
AG fungal isolates and plant extracts, help to control
of information for investors, corporates, a range of pests across all stages of life while
startups, researchers, industry, government allowing beneficial insects to remain. Within the
and universities from Australia and around the first month of being listed on the growAG platform,
photo attribution: Ben White
world. It allows them to locate information and NSW DPI and CRDC received 13 enquiries from
opportunities to deliver innovation back to the partners interested in commercialising this
farm and the food supply-chain, ensuring our technology. While they had previously had trouble
excellent agricultural research translates to real finding investment through more traditional
benefits for our farmers. means, the increased interest generated by
growAG meant the group was forced to close
DEVELOPMENT OF R&D OUTCOMES PLATFORMS Launched in April 2021, growAG has already expressions of interest earlier than expected.
hosted over 2000 research projects and over
40 commercialisation opportunities. One
Digital platforms act as innovation marketplaces for RDCs, such opportunity was to commercialise novel
biological controls for insect pests developed
research organisations and inventors to list and provide by the NSW Department of Primary Industries
detail on technologies that can attract investment and (DPI) in partnership with Cotton Research and
commercialisation partners from around the world. Development Corporation (CRDC).
They work to attract overall greater investment in innovation from Australia’s
private sector, accelerate the commercialisation of agrifood technologies by
enabling users to see opportunities in Australia, New Zealand and the
Asia-Pacific region, and provide further transparency of RDC RD&E projects.
The growAG case study provides an example of a game-changing online
platform that has successfully showcased our world leading agricultural
research, unique technologies and commercialisation opportunities
to the world (see next page for more detail).
It has expanded over time to include:
2000+
research projects.
41
commercial
opportunities
for investors
15 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 16
AGRICULTURAL REFORMS: WHAT Agricultural reforms: what we still need to undertake
WE STILL NEED TO UNDERTAKE
We are continuing to build on the
great work that has been done.
We have provided $2.8 million to AIA The Digital Foundations for Agriculture We are supporting industry to improve the We are helping the Innovation Hubs to
for the development of investment Strategy is being created and will sharing of data across the agriculture and grow and support producers.
prospectuses to support the delivery form part of the National Agricultural food supply chain, through the Australian This support includes:
of the four National Agricultural Innovation Agenda. AgriFood Data Exchange project led by
- $4m for priority projects, including
Innovation Priorities. Integrity Systems (a subsidiary of Meat opportunities for the regional hubs to collaborate
In particular, it will align with the fourth new
innovation priority.
and Livestock Australia). as a national network
The prospectuses will identify areas where public
and private investment should be focused – seeking The Australian AgriFood Data Exchange will create - $9m to enable the hubs to employ adoption officers
The strategy will unify stakeholders across
out opportunities to deliver outcomes that drive an interconnected data highway for Australia’s as part of the “shopfront” service provided to farmers
government, research, business and industry to work
sustainability, productivity and profitability across agrifood value chain. The data exchange will allow the and others
together to realise the benefits of digital agriculture.
Australian agricultural value chains. The prospectuses timely and permissioned exchange of data between
will be open for investment by governments, RDCs and The strategy will help drive the widespread adoption of participants across the agriculture and food - The development of a drought resilience research
the private sector. digital technologies to increase productivity, economic supply chain. and adoption investment plan, to provide a national
growth, sustainability and long-term resilience of perspective on priorities and gaps
This will allow for an initial testing phase to help
the agricultural industry and its related value chains. - A digital platform, and annual science to practice
demonstrate the value of data sharing, identify
This strategy is specific to the agricultural, fisheries forums, to capture and disseminate knowledge
areas for improvement and business case
and forestry sector. Broader work to deliver a modern generated through the hubs.
development, before the full Australian AgriFood
digital economy is outlined in Australia’s Digital
Data Exchange is established.
Economy Strategy. It maps the course for Australia to
become a leading digital economy and society by 2030.
17 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 18KEY PARTICIPANTS Key participants in the agricultural innovation system
IN THE AGRICULTURAL
INNOVATION SYSTEM The key participants in the agricultural innovation system are:
Rural Research and Development Agricultural Innovation Australia (AIA):
Corporations (RDCs): RDCs have helped drive it is a not-for-profit, public company established
The Australian agricultural innovation since 1989. They allow
Australian governments and primary producers
to facilitate joint investment and collaboration
in cross-industry agricultural issues of
Agricultural Innovation to co-invest in R&D to benefit industry and
regional communities. Currently, there are 15
national importance. AIA attracts investment
from public, private, not-for-profit and global
system consists of RDCs that are funded through R&D grower levy
payments and Commonwealth Government
commercial entities to deliver agricultural
innovation initiatives.
numerous organisations funding arrangements.
Governments across Australia: the state,
Innovation Hubs: our Innovation Hubs are territory and commonwealth governments
with diverse roles and the new focal point to help farmers and rural support agricultural innovation through a range
and regional communities build drought of policies and programs aimed at building the
responsibilities. resilience and other agricultural outcomes capacity of agricultural industries.
through investment into collaborative research,
development, extension, adoption and Farming system groups: work is often a
End users of agricultural innovation are typically farmer–scientist partnership, with research
participants within the agricultural value chain. commercialisation activities.
mainly conducted at the farm scale. The
Innovation extends to the education and finance Commonwealth Scientific Industrial Research groups are farmer-driven, often non-profit
sectors, as human and financial capital act as Organisation (CSIRO): the national science organisations focusing on improving outcomes
important inputs for innovation. agency tasked to undertake research for the and sharing ideas across the group. Many
Participants in the innovation system traditionally betterment of the Australian community. groups operate at a regional scale where
work together through funding programs focused CSIRO works with industry, government and common commodities are produced.
on areas of common interest. The RDCs have long the research community to turn science into
solutions to address Australia’s greatest Agricultural value chain: this group includes
been the cornerstone of these relationships creating producers, processors, grower groups and
large networks largely focussed on their relevant challenges. Food and agriculture is a key area
of focus for CSIRO. others within the agricultural value chain.
commodities.
Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs): Startups and entrepreneurs, agribusiness
Recent initiatives such as evokeAG, growAG and and other private sector organisations:
AIA have opened the doors for the agricultural our CRC program supports Australian
industries’ ability to compete, produce and this is a large dispersed group of innovators
innovation sector. These provide a gateway outside ranging from farmers to tech developers. They
traditional channels, particularly to innovators and partner with the research sector. Several CRCs
are directly relevant to agriculture. have a strong history of innovation as a product
investors who may not typically engage with the of problem solving or the application of existing
agricultural industry. We are pleased to support Universities and other education providers: technologies to new problems. An example of
these initiatives as they are a significant opportunity the 43 universities across Australia providing an organisation within the private sector is the
to bring new ideas and investment to agriculture. facilities for a range of educational services and Australian Farm Institute.
The establishment of the Drought Resilience research. Topics directly relevant to agricultural
Adoption and Innovation hubs and expansion of their industries are researched at many of these
focus is essential to linking existing participants and institutions providing the basic research effort
helping new entrants navigate the system’s many for agricultural innovation in Australia.
players, organisations and structures.
These new initiatives strengthen collaboration,
maximise results and increase the returns on the
investments to levy payers through increasing
the impact and commercialising the outcomes
of R&D. They will be an important feature of the
innovation system providing additional ways for new
investment and ideas for our agricultural industries
underpinning future prosperity, with benefits for
regional and national economies, community
and landscape.
19 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 20MONITORING AND EVALUATION
OF OUR SUCCESS
Regular monitoring and evaluation is key
to the success of the National Agricultural
Innovation Agenda as it will depict
whether initiatives and investments are
delivering on their intended outcomes.
Crucially, it will also inform efforts by government, The monitoring and evaluation framework is made
research providers and investors and provide up of three core components:
opportunities to regularly review and adjust their
investments and activities. 01 an innovation baseline that measures the
innovation system’s current performance
The Australian Government is investing $2.7 million
to fund the collection and analysis of data that will 02 key outputs that measure efforts to improve
form the basis of annual performance reports, innovation
as well as an in-depth evaluation of the National innovation outcomes that measure the overall
Agricultural Innovation Agenda’s success in 2024–25.
03
innovation system impact.
ATTACHMENTS
21 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 22ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION PRIORITIES AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION PRIORITIES
PRIORITY 1 PRIORITY 2
Trusted exporter of premium food Australia will champion climate resilience
and agricultural products to increase the productivity, profitability and
sustainability of the agricultural sector
Areas of focus across the value chain Areas of focus across the value chain
FARM GATE PROCESSING DISTRIBUTION EXPORT AND RETAIL CONSUMER FARM GATE | PROCESSING | DISTRIBUTION EXPORT AND RETAIL CONSUMER
Whole-of-farm Adopting technologies Supply chain efficiency Improve existing Enabling transparency Deliver new varietals, genetics and management practices that allow farmers to Improving existing Enabling transparency
approach to define and assurance systems – getting products to market access and & trust as a producer of thrive in a changing climate. market access and & trust as a producer of
what and how we (including traceability market safer, faster, diversifying to new differentiated products diversifying to new differentiated products
grow to create a highly systems) to produce cheaper. markets, including aligned to consumer Enable mixed farming systems and more diverse enterprise mixes. markets, including aligned to consumer
sought-after, premium healthier and safer by demonstrating preferences. by demonstrating preferences.
Create more technologies, tools, systems and opportunities to assist decision
brand globally. agrifood products and world-leading land world leading land
making, improve performance, deliver efficiencies, diversify income streams
capture value from our management / supply management / supply
and access new or premium markets.
international reputation. chain practices. chain practices
Optimise the supply chain, including minimising waste.
Adopt energy conserving and emissions reduction and mitigation technologies
to reduce costs and improve efficiency across the supply chain.
Create new and improve existing data to underpin and demonstrate performance.
RATIONALE RATIONALE
The value of agriculture, fisheries and forestry Building consumer trust will be key to competing Australian farmers are facing increasingly frequent Currently agriculture is responsible for around 14%
production is forecast to reach $78.4 billion in with exporters who can afford to sell their products droughts, floods, hailstorms and bushfires. Without of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions and is a key
2021-22. Australia exports around 75% of total for less. further adaptation changes to our climate could source of methane and nitrous oxide.
agricultural production. impact agricultural productivity.
Australia’s growth to a $100 billion sector by 2030 Agriculture has made a good contribution to date,
Global agricultural demand is growing strongly, will depend on a range of factors, including growing Farmers have responded to changes in climate and with emissions from cropping and grazing falling
but export competition is also increasing. exports and markets. Positioning the sector as farm production has grown since 1990. by 71% over the past 3 decades. Agriculture is a
a premier exporter of high-quality and ethically key player in the government’s Emissions
Australia currently accounts for 3% of global produced agrigoods is one strategy. Technology will unlock further improvements Reduction Fund, with over 167 million tonnes of
agricultural trade and ranks 12th in the world for in production and adaptive capacity which will contracted abatement linked to land and agriculture
agricultural trade. maintain or enhance Australian International sector projects.
Competitiveness.
Uncertain trade relationships have highlighted the Further opportunities exist to reduce emission,
need for diversification and the seeking of new Continued investment in research, development, improve efficiencies and tap into diversified income
market opportunities to maintain growth. extension and adoption will be essential to realise streams through, for example, carbon capture
these gains. and storage in trees and soil, renewable energy
use, converting organic waste into electricity and
Further efforts are required to understand and reduce investing in solar and wind technologies.
agriculture’s carbon footprint, particularly in crop and
livestock systems.
23 | National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement National Agricultural Innovation Policy Statement | 24ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT
AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION PRIORITIES AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION PRIORITIES
PRIORITY 3 PRIORITY 4
Australia is a world leader in preventing and rapidly Australia is a mature adopter, developer and
responding to significant pests and diseases through exporter of digital agriculture
future-proofing our biosecurity system
Areas of focus across the value chain Areas of focus across the value chain
FARM GATE PROCESSING DISTRIBUTION EXPORT AND RETAIL CONSUMER FARM GATE PROCESSING | DISTRIBUTION | EXPORT AND
RETAIL | CONSUMER
More effective offshore World class traceability Innovated supply chain Strong assurance systems, Monitoring, assurance Leadership – Enhancing connection and coordination across the sector and setting a clear plan.
management of biosecurity and quality assurance assurance systems will supported by pest and and traceability systems Traceability assurance across the supply chain, from
risks will protect systems that underpin support efforts to deliver disease monitoring and provide confidence to Skills – Delivering the skills and expertise needed by both the current and future workforce. farm-gate to consumer.
farmers. Farmers will confidence in the safety of integrated product and access to real-time domestic and international
have innovative tools and Australian products while transport tracing capability data, will enable export consumers, and increase Data and Governance – Maximising data use, ensuring good data management, common data Demonstrating product assurance and
systems to better manage ensuring any biosecurity and will enable rapid market access and satisfy responsiveness of the standards, and ensuring interoperability. characteristics in line with purchaser and consumer
biosecurity seamlessly as risks can effectively be response to incursions. consumer expectations. system to changing values such as sustainable, clean, provenance.
part of farm operations, traced and managed. There will be increased consumer demands. Opportunities and Value Proposition – Helping producers understand and realise the benefits
and to enable early efforts with importers from digitising their businesses; ensuring appropriate and agile regulation, together with faster
detections of pests and and the logistics sector to commercialisation.
diseases. There will be deliver more integrated
Connectivity and Infrastructure – Ensuring that agricultural businesses understand their
a culture of using and business process
connectivity options and can access the infrastructure they need.
sharing data to drive better solutions, with a focus
decision making, driving up on co-designing, piloting,
productivity. and rolling out initiatives
supporting faster, safe
clearance of products.
Adoption of auto-detection
screening technology and
innovative diagnostic tools
will enable rapid movement
of goods across borders
and better management of
biosecurity risks.
RATIONALE RATIONALE
A robust, effective and multi-layered biosecurity system Harnessing innovation will help farmers and producers Digital adoption in the Australia agriculture industry is Digital technologies and data can enable farmers and
is essential to keeping Australia safe from exotic pests stay protected into the future as challenges increase estimated at just 10%. the broader supply chain to make faster, more informed
and diseases. and become more complex. Improved awareness and decisions, automate processes and predict future events.
understanding of roles and responsibilities will A 3-fold increase in active technology users is required Digital supply chains also help mitigate risks and allow
Protecting our biosecurity status supports market access generate partnership opportunities between for agriculture to reach its ambitious goal to move to a the system to more readily respond to shocks.
and avoids unnecessary costs for our producers. More governments and industry. $100 billion industry by 20301.
effective management options further reduce pest and There is an opportunity to establish a world-class
disease management costs. Our direct investment in Australia’s biosecurity system, Uptake of digital technology could create a $20.3 billion Australian agritech industry, and create new export
and partnerships with government, industry and the per year increase to industry production2. opportunities.
As set out in the Commonwealth Biosecurity 2030 community, complements work underway towards digital
strategic roadmap, by working smarter and more transformation and simplifying trade.
collaboratively – and with best data, tools, and capability
– Australia will rise to this challenge. It is one of 1. Nolet, S and Mao, C 2018, Accelerating the development of Agtech solutions worth adopting, AgriFutures, Wagga Wagga
increasingly complex global and local threats. It is about 2. Leonard, E. (Ed), Rainbow, R. (Ed), Trindall, J. (Ed), Baker, I., Barry, S., Darragh, L., Darnell, R., George, A., Heath, R., Jakku, E., Laurie, A.,
supporting our jobs and environment and protecting the Lamb, D., Llewellyn, R., Perrett, E., Sanderson, J., Skinner, A., Stollery, T., Wiseman, L., Wood, G. and Zhang, A. (2017). Accelerating precision
Australian way of life into the future. agriculture to decision agriculture: Enabling digital agriculture in Australia. Cotton Research and Development Corporation, Australia.
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Strategies of Australian agricultural innovation
Agricultural innovation is not static – multiple strategies have been developed by different Agricultural Innovation – A National Approach to Grow
organisations to drive the agricultural innovation sector forward.
Australia’s Future: Full report March 2019
Some of the key strategies, outlining priorities and opportunities for the future include:
Shared vision for the future of Australian agriculture identified 5 key
recommendation areas:
03 World-class innovation practices:
Establishing world-class innovation practices through
collaboration, entrepreneurship and ambition will be critical in
Agricultural Innovation – A National
Approach to Grow Australia’s
The ACOLA Horizon scan the future
of agricultural technologies report
National Farmers’ Federation:
The Voice of Australian Farmers
CSIRO: Australia’s innovation
catalyst CSIRO Strategy 2020 01 Strengthening ecosystem leadership, cohesion and culture: order to maximise opportunities from investment in agricultural
Stronger ecosystem leadership and cohesion across Australian innovation
Future: Full report March 2019 September 2020 (National Farmers’ Federation (CSIRO 2015)
agricultural innovation will generate greater and more diverse
2018) and 2030 Roadmap (National
Farmers’ Federation 2018)
outcomes, driving our global competitiveness through clear
strategic direction and increased collaboration
04 Strengthening regions:
In the future, regions will play a greater role in Australian
agricultural innovation, to fully realise its benefits and maximise
02 Funding and investment: our innovation uptake
Growing and improving the balance of investments will help
Council of Rural R&D The Australian Academy of Innovation and Science Australia:
the Australian agricultural innovation system to deliver both
incremental and transformational innovation by addressing cross-
05 Next generation innovation platform:
Improving the foundations of Australian agricultural innovation,
Corporations: Vision 2050 (Rural Science: Decadal plan for Australia 2030: Prosperity through commodity challenges, and targeting economic, environmental and including data, physical infrastructure and the regulatory
R&D Corporations 2018) Australian Agricultural Sciences Innovation (Innovation and Science social outcomes environment, will support the transformation of our agricultural
(2017–26) (Australian Academy of Australia 2017) sector into the future
Science 2017)
The ACOLA Horizon scan the future of agricultural
technologies report September 2020
Part of ACOLA’s horizon scanning series the report examines the impacts, Key opportunities identified include:
opportunities and challenges for Australian agriculture associated Australia’s agricultural technology and innovation ecosystem needs
with sensors, the Internet of Things, automation, biotechnology and revitalisation to provide more opportunity for stakeholder involvement and
nanotechnology, and transactional technologies (such as blockchain). to break down sectoral and disciplinary silos.
Key findings include: The strength and resilience of Australia’s agricultural sector will be
uptake of advanced technologies could significantly transform decision enhanced by supporting adoption of agricultural technology by Indigenous
making, farm practices, labour requirements along the supply chain and landholders.
agricultural productivity over the next ten years; and
Data are a powerful asset but will require appropriate national leadership
significant opportunities exist to further develop drought-resilient crops, and regulation to ensure their potential value to agriculture is realised.
improve resource management, and better predict and understand
climate variability. New technologies – such as sensor, robotic, AI, data, biotechnology,
nanotechnology and distributed ledger – if appropriately supported and
adopted, can significantly enhance the sector’s productivity, diversity and
profitability.
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PREVIOUS REVIEWS PREVIOUS REVIEWS
National Farmers’ Federation: The Voice of Australian Farmers (National Farmers’ Council of Rural R&D Corporations:
Federation 2018) and 2030 Roadmap (National Farmers’ Federation 2018) Vision 2050 (Rural R&D Corporations 2018)
Vision: To exceed $100 billion in farm gate output by 2030 Pillar 5: Capital and risk management. Vision: Rural R&D Corporations’ vision is of flourishing agriculture,
This will require industry collaboration: fisheries and forestry industries underpinning a thriving agrisystem.
Pillar 1: Customers and the value chain Driving future success is a globally-connected, highly effective and
Pillar 2: Growing sustainability The NFF family: Including state farming organisations, dynamic knowledge and innovation ecosystem
commodity groups and partner organisations
Pillar 3: Unlocking innovation Recommendations:
Public and private R&D efforts work seamlessly to translate Value chain partners: Transporters, processors, input providers,
investors, retailers, and others in the agricultural value chain Develop and implement a national framework to drive a globally-
world-class research into tools and services which give connected, high performing and effective knowledge and innovation
Australian agriculture a competitive edge Community: The Australian and global community ecosystem
The agricultural value chain is highly digitised, with the benefits Education and training providers: Schools, higher and vocational Develop and implement a national, integrated, whole-of-government
of new technology shared fairly among participants educational providers, leadership and professional development strategy for an enhanced agrisystem
bodies
The agricultural value chain has reduced its reliance on fossil Detailed analysis of the agrisystem and of Australia’s involvement in
fuels, in favour of biofuels and renewable sources of electricity Research and extension bodies: Corporations, universities,
government research & extension agencies, grower groups, and global agrisystem value chains, to identify opportunities for intervention
that are affordable and reliable and improvement
technical advisers
Pillar 4: People and communities Farm businesses: Individual farmers and farm businesses
Government: Federal, State, Territory and local governments
The Australian Academy of Science: Decadal plan for Australian Agricultural Sciences
(2017–26) (Australian Academy of Science 2017)
CSIRO: Australia’s innovation catalyst The Australian Academy of Science’s plan outlines strategies to improve
the strength and efficiency of agricultural research in Australia in ways
The agricultural research community engage strongly with infrastructure
planning processes at all levels to enable agricultural research to benefit
CSIRO Strategy 2020 (CSIRO 2015) that will increase the ability of governments and producers to maintain
productivity and efficiency in the face of evolving natural challenges.
from, and contribute to, shared national capabilities, including emerging
data-infrastructure and maintaining the pool of skilled technicians that
unlock value from national infrastructure capability
Vision: Australia’s innovation catalyst, collaborating to boost Breakthrough innovation: Increase our capacity to help reinvent existing Recommendations:
Australia’s innovation performance industries and create new industries for Australia and deliver public good The Australian Government establish a national agricultural research The Australian Government consider reviewing and updating
translation and commercialisation fund, to invest in promising arrangements for national coordination of agricultural research and
Mission: Create benefit for Australia through impactful science and Excellent science: Create breakthrough technology and knowledge and be agricultural discoveries and fast-track their commercialisation into innovation in Australia. One option would be to establish an organisation
innovation a trusted advisor for Australia new and improved Australian products and services in domestic and that provides a central point of coordination for agricultural research and
international markets. It is suggested that this fund be modelled on its applications
Strategic actions: Health, safety and environment: Enhance staff safety and wellbeing and the Biomedical Translation Fund; selecting appropriately qualified and
further our aspiration towards zero harm experienced fund managers to stimulate private sector investment at the All organisations in the agricultural sector do more to understand
Customer first: Create deeper innovation relationships with our
early stage of agricultural research translation and effectively engage with the public on social acceptance of
customers and prioritise the highest value investments
Inclusion, trust and respect: Fully enable and support the innovation agricultural science and the enterprises it supports. This also applies to
Global outlook, national benefit: Deliver connectivity to the global science, capacity of our creative people and teams to create risk and deliver to The academic, industry and government sectors partner to create a understanding that agriculture reaches far beyond the farm gate
technology and innovation frontier as well as access new markets for customers doctoral training and early career support centre for the agricultural
Australian innovation sciences
Deliver on commitments: Enhance our agility, financial sustainability and
Collaboration hub: Integrate the best solutions for our customers, capacity to respond at the speed of business
increase our flexibility and enhance Australia’s innovation performance
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Innovation and Science Australia: Australia 2030: Prosperity through Innovation
(Innovation and Science Australia 2017)
Vision: Innovation and Science Australia’s vision for 2030 is that Industry: Ensure Australia’s ongoing prosperity by stimulating high-growth
Australia will be counted within the top tier of innovation nations. firms and raising productivity
We will take pride in our global reputation for excellence in science, Government: Become a catalyst for innovation and be recognised as
research and commercialisation. a global leader in innovative service delivery
Five imperatives are set out: Research & Development: Improve R&D effectiveness by increasing
translation and commercialisation of research
Education: Respond to the changing nature of work by equipping all
Australians with skills relevant to 2030 Culture & Ambition: Enhance the national culture of innovation by
launching ambitious National Missions
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