The new Rural Research and Development Priorities aim to foster innovation and guide R&D effort in the face of continuing economic, environmental and social change. The rural sector needs to be well positioned to respond to and manage change to maintain and improve its long term profitability, competitiveness and sustainability.

Climate variability and climate change have been included within these Priorities for the first time. This reflects the emphasis the Australian Government puts on the significant risk that climate change poses for the agricultural sector.

The Priorities will enable issues of common concern to be explored in a coordinated and cost effective way.

The Rural Research & Development Priorities are:

Productivity and Adding Value: Improve the productivity and profitability of existing industries and support the development of viable new industries.

Supply Chain and Markets: Better understand and respond to domestic and international market and consumer requirements and improve the flow of such information through the whole supply chain, including to consumers.

Natural Resource Management: Support effective management of Australia’s natural resources to ensure primary industries are both economically and environmentally sustainable.

Climate Variability and Climate Change: Build resilience to climate variability and adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Biosecurity: Protect Australia’s community, primary industries and environment from biosecurity threats.

Supporting the Rural Research and Development Priorities

• Innovation Skills: Improve the skills to undertake research and apply its findings.
• Technology: Promote the development of new and existing technologies.