Capturing value from science in agriculture

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Federal Government’s efforts to develop a Vision for a Science Nation and invites the Government to make better use of farm representation bodies to bridge the gap between agricultural industries and academia.
“We recognise the critical role of research and development in reaching our potential to meet future food demands and the need for a sustainable agricultural sector,” NFF Chief Executive Officer Simon Talbot said.
“Our science industries need to keep pace with other competing and leading scientific nations through the development of a long-term science investment strategy that spans 20 years, with a recurrent budget that is protected in real terms.
“The pay-off will come from commercialising research breakthroughs. That means taking a more coordinated approach to innovation with effective partnerships between industry, researchers and government.
“We invite Minister for Industry and Science Ian Macfarlane to engage more closely with us about how agriculture can best capture value from our nation’s science efforts and foster innovation partnerships,” Mr Talbot said.
A copy of the NFF submission to the Vision for a Science Nation – Responding to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics: Australia’s Future consultation paper is available here.