Feedback on future agricultural research plan

Agri-businesses and communities are encouraged to have their say on the Queensland Government’s agricultural Research Development and Extension (RD&E) plan, which will support the Government’s target of doubling the State’s agricultural production by 2040.

Agriculture Minister John McVeigh said Queensland had a proud history of agricultural RD&E that had seen many technological advances boosting the quality and quantity of our produce. 

“Clever research and development can lead to lower production costs, better yields, greater sustainability, more efficient resource allocation and new market opportunities,” Mr McVeigh said.

“Effective and targeted RD&E will steer the next wave of productivity growth in Queensland agriculture in partnership with industry, universities and other research providers.

“That’s why it’s important that we get our research plan for the future right and we have input from agri-business and farming communities.”

The RD&E plan is available online for public comment at www.daff.qld.gov.au with submissions closing 5pm Friday 9 August 2013.

Mr McVeigh said Queensland was one of the few developed regions in the world with unique tropical bio-diverse ecosystems.

“Proximity to tropical markets in Asia and our strong RD&E base in sub-tropical and tropical agriculture makes us well placed to capitalise on the potential increases in demand,” he said.

“Queensland’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries have a production value around $14.7 billion (2011-2012), employ approximately 320,100 people across the food chain and generate export earnings of more than $6.3 billion. 

“However, our agricultural industries are facing significant challenges such as global economic uncertainties, a high Australian dollar, increasing production costs, pest and disease risks and climatic variability.

“Our investment in RD&E will be focused in the areas where Queensland has a competitive advantage, particularly in beef production, sugarcane, tropical forest plantations, summer cereal grains, tropical and subtropical horticulture.”

“This plan looks at how the Department’s RD&E efforts will contribute to each of the four pathways to growth described in our Queensland agriculture strategy,” he said.

“I welcome feedback from every Queenslander who has an interest in the future of our agriculture.”

All submissions for the RD&E plan will be collated with a final plan released by the end of 2013.

[ENDS] 26 July 2013

Media Contact: Louise Gillis 0408 709 160