Construction is beginning on the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture's (TIA) new $20.2 million agricultural research and education facility that will deliver practical solutions for Tasmanian farmers, from developing climate-resilient crops and pastures, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and producing more food with fewer inputs.
The purpose-built Grow Facility at the University of Tasmania's Newnham campus will support practical research to strengthen Tasmania's agricultural sector for generations to come.
The milestone moment was celebrated on 10 July 2026 with the symbolic planting of heritage apple trees in the adjacent 50 Trees Heritage Orchard, signifying a commitment to honouring Tasmania's agricultural heritage and growing its future. Alongside the Grow Facility, the orchard is being revitalised as a living classroom where students can gain hands-on horticulture and entomology experience.
TIA Director Professor Mike Rose described the project as an important step towards achieving the Tasmanian Government's goal to grow the annual value of the state's agricultural sector to $10 billion by 2050.
"Agricultural research helps to remove some of the guesswork from farming. We test ideas and technologies in controlled environments before they are adopted by industry, leading to advances such as better pasture, healthier animals, resilient crops and more efficient use of water, fertiliser and energy. Ultimately that means stronger farm businesses and a more resilient agricultural sector," Professor Rose said.
"It's been estimated that every dollar invested in agricultural research returns ten times that value to society, making investments like this critical to the future of Tasmania's agricultural industry."
Professor Rose said the new facility will replace ageing infrastructure and bring together a range of experts under one roof including soil scientists, plant pathologists, entomologists, plant breeders and biosecurity experts.
"The Grow Facility gives our researchers the tools to answer industry questions faster and with greater precision, through controlled-environment glasshouses and outdoor trial areas," Professor Rose said.
"We will work with growers to develop crops better suited to future climates, improve protected cropping systems for industries like berries, and strengthen research that supports Tasmania's globally significant pyrethrum industry."
Construction is expected to be completed by late 2027.
The project team includes Oliver Kelly Group as the principal contractor, Powerplants for the glasshouse and specialised equipment, and Apex as the glasshouse supplier. The facility has been designed by architects at Terroir .
TIA remains a regionally networked state-wide institute with a strong presence across Tasmania, including staff located in each region and our world-class research farms in the North-West.
Further project details and updates can be found on the TIA website.
