- Western Australia's multi-billion-dollar grains industry gathers for Grains Research Updates
- McGowan Government backing research and development to grow the industry
- WA grain growers deliver second consecutive record crop, surpassing 26 million tonnes
The McGowan Government's investment in research and development is helping to grow and future-proof Western Australia's valuable grains industry, on the back of the State's biggest harvest.
WA grain growers have harvested the State's second consecutive record crop, surpassing 26 million tonnes in 2022-23.
Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis reinforced the Government's commitment to research and development to support growth in the grains industry, at an industry function ahead of the second day of the Grains Research and Development Corporation Grains Research Updates.
The WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has more than 25 researchers presenting at the research updates, covering topics from plant breeding and agronomy to crop protection and reducing grains carbon emissions.
The WA Government today also welcomed the new addition of the Grower Group Alliance to the landmark Western Australian Agricultural Research Collaboration, with $25 million provided by the McGowan Government over three years.
The Grower Group Alliance is a producer-led network driving innovation and adoption, which will provide a vital grower perspective to help shape future research and development through this collaboration.
Grains production is the State's most valuable agricultural industry, with this season's harvest expected to reach $10 billion in value.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"The contribution of the Western Australian grains industry to the State's economy continues to grow, with this season's harvest anticipated to contribute around $10 billion.
"DPIRD's researchers have a strong presence at this year's event, delivering information and research findings that can make a real difference to farm businesses and the grains industry.
"The record harvest this season is a testament to WA growers' hard work to produce this outstanding result.
"There are always challenges for farmers, whether it be climate change, rising input costs or pests and disease - so backing industry with a robust research and development sector is vital."
