- International research to deliver improved barley varieties for Australian growers
- $1.2 million invested by the Grains Research and Development Corporation
- Murdoch University and University of Adelaide researchers join international consortium
More resilient barley varieties with better yields could soon be available to Australian farmers thanks to an international research partnership.
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) was investing $1.2 million into the joint project with Germany the USA, UK and Canada.
"Aussie farmers already do well in tough conditions and this work will make our industry even stronger," Minister Littleproud said.
"This partnership will put the world's best on the job to find crops better suited to our environment.
"Genetic scientists from Perth and Adelaide will collaborate to develop new barley varieties that have better yields, are disease-resistant and suited to our environment.
"This will help make our grain farmers tougher and more productive which will boost regional economies.
"Local research organisations chipped in with resources worth $335,500 and Victoria's provided another $82,600 worth.
"Developing future barley varieties that are tolerant to our extreme conditions like drought will be a game changer for our barley growers."
