The goal is to help farmers across NSW boost productivity, improve on-farm technology, and enhance connectivity.
By promoting the adoption of state-of-the-art agricultural technologies, the program could enhance on-farm productivity by up to 25%, leading to a $3 billion increase in the gross value of production (GVP) annually.
Agtech encompasses innovations such as sensors and devices for real-time monitoring of conditions like weather, soil moisture, and water supplies, as well as automation and robotics.
The expanded program, previously limited to 11 local government areas, will now be open to all NSW farmers. It aims to tackle key barriers to Agtech adoption, including on-farm connectivity, digital capability, unclear benefits, and poor user experience. The program will also offer broader education, ensuring farmers feel equipped with the knowledge to maximise the benefits of Agtech.
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty emphasised the significance of these changes: “The changes to our Farms for the Future program are about helping more farmers understand and reap the enormous benefits of Agtech, including increased productivity, better farm management and greater connectivity.”
“Agtech provides more reliable and current information, helping farmers make better and quicker decisions that support both productivity and sustainability.”
“This transition to a broader state-wide program will help farmers really embrace Agtech solutions and ensure they are supported every step of the way.”
The program features initiatives such as industry-specific training courses, demonstration hubs across 10 DPIRD research stations, Agtech Alley for farmers to connect with suppliers, and an Agtech Toolbox with resources like articles, case studies, and how-to videos.
Michael and Helen Payten, who run a mixed enterprise farm in Central Western NSW, have already seen the benefits of participating in the program.
Michael said: “We have benefitted greatly from being involved in the Farms of the Future Program. There is great Agtech available, and this program gave us the confidence and momentum to adopt some new technologies.”
“The spray advisory system we have installed is becoming a crucial factor in determining optimal spraying windows.”
“It combines all the key data including temperature, wind, delta T, humidity & potential inversion layers and takes out the risk of poor spray outcomes, a win for both crop production and the environment.”
Read also: Albanese government’s $18 million investment in ag-tech connectivity for farmers
Helen added: “We’re very happy with the tank monitoring, complete with alerts. With four water supply tanks fed primarily by solar pumps, we were always anxious and constantly needing to check tank levels.”
“With livestock needs and house water supplies dependent on the tanks, we now get early warning if there’s a sudden fall. It gives great peace of mind.”
Adrianne Saplagio is a Content Producer at Comms Room, where she combines her passion for storytelling with her expertise in multimedia content creation. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for engaging audiences, Adrianne has been instrumental in crafting compelling narratives that resonate across various digital platforms.
