• Towards 2030 Innovation Day was held on Friday, 30 June, bringing together leading Charles Sturt researchers and industry partners to discuss the future of agriculture in Australia

The National Farmers Federation, NSW Farmers and Telstra, hosted the Towards 2030 Innovation Day on Friday 30 June at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga.  

The event brought together representatives from the University, industry and the corporate sector to progress the National Farmers Federation (NFF) Towards 2030 initiative.

The (NFF) Towards 2030 initiative aims to shape the future of agriculture in Australia by creating a prosperous, innovative, and sustainable agricultural sector.

A tour of Charles Sturt’s Global Digital Farm commenced the day’s proceedings, which was followed by an information session and panel discussion.

Charles Sturt Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor Michael Friend said the University is paving the way for research, targeting the initiative’s five strategic pillars, including growing farm profitability, enhancing environmental sustainability, securing social license, investing in innovation and building a skilled workforce.

“Charles Sturt University is a leader in the agriculture sector, combining expertise, research excellence, and industry engagement,” Professor Friend said.

“With strong programs in agricultural sciences, and other areas such as data science, a focus on sustainable practices, and a regional presence, Charles Sturt cultivates the next generation of skilled professionals, driving innovation and supporting the growth and sustainability of the agricultural industry.”

Director of Charles Sturt’s Global Digital Farm Mr Jonathan Medway said the event was a valuable opportunity for those in the industry and other stakeholders to see the work that has been done to date in keeping Australia’s agricultural sector thriving.

“The University actively engages in cutting-edge research projects to address challenges the agricultural sector faces, such as climate change, water scarcity, and food security,” Mr Medway said.

The discussion focussed on farming technologies and connectivity, how to improve wellbeing in the agricultural sector, and addressed staffing shortages facing the industry.

ENDS