$33 Million Agtech Program Expanded to Support More NSW Farmers
The Minns Government has announced the expansion of its innovative $33 million Farms of the Future Agtech program to 2028, aimed at helping farmers across New South Wales improve productivity and connectivity through cutting-edge agricultural technology. The program is expected to boost on-farm productivity by up to 25%, equating to a potential $3 billion increase in Gross Value of Production (GVP) per year.
The Farms of the Future program supports the adoption of agricultural technology (Agtech), which encompasses a wide range of innovations such as real-time monitoring devices for weather, soil moisture, and water supplies, as well as automation, robotics, and digital solutions to improve farm management.
Initially focused on 11 Local Government Areas (LGAs), the program is now open to all farmers across NSW. It aims to address key barriers such as on-farm connectivity, digital capability, unclear benefits, and poor user experience, which have previously hindered the adoption of Agtech.
Changes to the expanded program include:
- Industry-specific training courses that cover the fundamentals of new technology, ensuring farmers can confidently adopt and implement Agtech solutions.
- Demonstration Hubs at 10 Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) research stations across NSW, where farmers can observe Agtech in action on real farms.
- Agtech Alley, a designated space for Agtech suppliers at major field days, allowing farmers to directly connect with technology providers.
- The Agtech Toolbox, an extensive resource with articles, case studies, and how-to videos designed to help farmers better understand and use available technologies.
NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, emphasized the importance of the program in helping farmers embrace Agtech, stating, “These changes are about helping more farmers reap the enormous benefits of Agtech, including increased productivity, better farm management, and greater connectivity.”
Case Study: Michael and Helen Payten’s ‘Alfalfa’ Farm
Michael and Helen Payten, who run a mixed enterprise farm outside Canowindra in Central Western NSW, are among the beneficiaries of the program. Their 1,180-hectare farm, which includes cropping and sheep pastures, has adopted several technologies, including a spray advisory system and weather station.
Michael Payten highlighted the spray advisory system as a key benefit, noting how it helps determine optimal spraying windows by combining crucial data, reducing the risk of poor crop outcomes. Helen Payten also praised the tank monitoring system, which provides alerts for sudden drops in water levels, giving them peace of mind regarding their livestock and household water supplies.
For more information on the Farms of the Future Program, visit the official website.
