A renewed focus on sustainable agriculture and food production, climate resilience, meaningful partnerships, and preparing industry to respond to emerging challenges underpin the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture' s new Strategic Plan.
The Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) – a joint venture between the University of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Government - launched its Strategic Plan 2026-2031 at the TIA Vegetable Research Facility Field Day held at Forthside in North-West Tasmania on 9 December 2025.
The attracted around 100 attendees including farmers, agronomists, service providers, researchers and students.
TIA Director Professor Mike Rose said the plan coincides with the Institute's third decade and sets clear priorities to strengthen Tasmania's agricultural competitiveness and support the continued growth of Tasmania's economy.
"It is with great optimism that we present the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture's Strategic Plan for 2026-2031. Developed through extensive consultation with industry, government, academia and community partners, this plan reflects a shared vision for the future of cool climate agriculture and food innovation in Tasmania," Professor Rose said.
"The agricultural sector is navigating increasing complexity including climate variability, biosecurity risks, shifting global markets, and growing demand for a skilled workforce. This strategy responds with a clear focus on delivering the world-class research, development, training and education outcomes Tasmanian farmers and industry need to stay competitive and thrive.
"Importantly, our research will continue to be co-designed with industry to ensure we're addressing the issues that matter most, establishing clear pathways to impact and leveraging co-investment wherever possible."
The plan is shaped around six strategic objectives that set the direction for TIA's work over the next five years. They are:
- Strengthen sustainable agricultural food productivity in Tasmania
- Increase the resilience of the agriculture and food sectors to a changing climate
- Deliver an attractive, relevant and world-class agriculture and food education
- Achieve meaningful industry engagement for lasting impact
- Meaningful engagement with Aboriginal peoples
- Build a stronger institute
Professor Rose said the passion and commitment of TIA's staff, students and partners are central to delivering these ambitions.
"The work of our staff, students and partners, including the research showcased at today's Field Day, is driving innovation across the sector, from improving soil health and water management to enhancing biosecurity and developing climate smart farming systems. These efforts are helping Tasmanian agriculture to adapt, grow and lead," Professor Rose said.
The Field Day featured TIA's latest research and practical insights supporting Tasmania's horticulture sector, including expert presentations, a panel discussion and a guided walk around the research farm to see TIA and industry-led trials in action.
Topics covered at the event included biosecurity, potato mop top virus, emissions reduction, disease management in pyrethrum, growing value from irrigation, insects in agriculture, and heat stress in strawberries.
