The University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) and Nong Lam University in Vietnam have launched a new Australia-Vietnam research network to accelerate sustainable agriculture innovation and strengthen collaboration on climate-resilient farming.
The Vietnam–Australia Sustainable Agriculture Academic Network (VASAN) brings together universities, researchers, government agencies and industry partners to support both countries' transition towards a green economy.
UniSQ and Nong Lam University will co-chair VASAN for its inaugural 2025–2027 term, connecting expertise from both countries through four key themes: Climate, AgriTech, People and Community, and Production.
UniSQ Pro Vice-Chancellor (International) Professor Ren Yi said the network would build stronger research and innovation links between Australia and Vietnam.
"VASAN promotes knowledge sharing, fosters new research partnerships and supports our shared climate resilience goals," Professor Yi said.
"For Vietnam, VASAN provides access to Australian research expertise as its agricultural sector continues to modernise and respond to new sustainability and traceability standards in international markets.
"For Australia, the network deepens one of our most important regional relationships and builds on decades of agricultural collaboration with Vietnam, while creating opportunities for joint research, grant funding and two-way exchange of academic staff and students."
The network complements the 2024 Australia–Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which highlights deeper cooperation in areas including climate, environment and innovation as a shared priority.
UniSQ will contribute its expertise in applied agricultural research through the Centre for Agricultural Engineering and the Institute for Agriculture, Climate and the Environment, including strengths in precision irrigation, water management and farming systems innovation.
As Australian co-chair, UniSQ will coordinate VASAN's thematic working groups, connect Vietnamese partners with Australian expertise and support opportunities for joint research projects and training initiatives.
In its first year, the network will build strong foundations for long-term collaboration by planning quarterly webinars, beginning next month, and by organising a dedicated VASAN session at the 6th International Conference on Sustainable Agriculture and Environment.
Over time, VASAN aims to form lasting research partnerships and deliver practical outcomes through initiatives supported by organisations including the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research, CSIRO and the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
People interested in joining one of VASAN's thematic working groups are encouraged to register their interest.
