The integration of WA agricultural research

Kim Chance MLC Minister for Agriculture and Forestry; The Mid-West and Wheatbelt

The Gallop Government recognises that worldclass research is the key to progressing agriculture in Western Australia. In doing so, this provides new jobs and opportunities for all Western Australians wherever they live, while protecting the State’s unique environment.

Western Australia’s agricultural research organisations have contributed signifi cantly to the industry’s current status as the second greatest contributor to the Western Australian economy each year.

Second only to mining, agriculture contributes AU$8 billion each year and provides valuable business and employment opportunities throughout the State.

Research organisations such as Murdoch University are participating in a recent combined research effort known as Agricultural Research Western Australia (ARWA), which will provide the knowledge and expertise to improve the breeding, production, processing and marketing of agricultural products.

Through collaboration in ARWA, launched earlier this year, Curtin University of Technology, the Department of Agriculture, Murdoch University and The University of Western Australia have combined resources and research efforts to further contribute to the Western Australian agricultural industry.

ARWA, which was supported by $28 million in State Government funding for initial capital works at the Murdoch University site, will combine larger, more capable scientifi c teams that are equipped to tackle the big issues and opportunities facing agriculture.

The result is expected to be an increased share of national research and development funding and international research projects, and accelerated development and maintenance of the industry on the international market.

Agriculture is an industry that must seek new ways to improve performance. Likewise, the agricultural research and training sectors are seeking to improve their ability to provide relevant, timely and costeffective services and products.

During the past ten years, research has facilitated a massive growth of new agricultural products and exports from Western Australia, including horticultural, grain, dairy and meat products.

Research has also enabled better management of natural resources and improved biosecurity measures to protect the industry from pests and diseases. I am pleased with the positive approach Murdoch University has taken in agricultural research and I am sure the university will continue to make a positive impact on the sector.