An independent report commissioned by Australia’s Chief Scientist has supported a move to digital technology by the nation’s agricultural industries.
The report, Future of Agricultural Technologies, provides further support for the National Agricultural Innovation Agenda.
It states that while Australian agriculture is already world-renowned for its efficiency, productivity improvement and adaption to external challenges, the uptake of new and emerging technologies was critical to the growth and resilience of the sector.
Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud said the Chief Scientist, Alan Finkel’s report would help to inform the development of key deliverables under the National Agricultural Innovation Agenda.
“This comprehensive body of work makes it abundantly clear that strategic investment in the development of new tech is critical if agriculture is to stay ahead of the game,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Australian farmers already have some of the most advanced farming practices in the world, and the findings of this report confirm the importance of ensuring farmers and businesses on-farm have easy access to innovative technologies into the future along the supply chain.”
He said the report aligned with the Government’s Digital Foundations for Agriculture Strategy that set the foundations for the widespread uptake of digital technologies across agriculture, forestry and fisheries.
“The strategy will build the sector’s resilience to shocks, drive recovery from the pandemic, and ensure the foundations are in place for agricultural businesses to implement modern technologies,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It also complements the efforts of NBN Co and other organisations who are providing practical solutions to improve uptake of digital technologies in the agriculture sector.”
The 102-page Future of Agricultural Technologies report can be accessed at this PS News link.
