The Minns Labor Government is making a significant commitment to the future of New South Wales's regional communities and agriculture sector with a historic boost to the state’s primary industries research program. A substantial investment of over $60 million will see crucial upgrades to seven research facilities and five emergency response sites across regional NSW, aiming to enhance research and improve emergency preparedness, which will benefit farmers, industry professionals, and communities alike.
The investment will bolster the capacity of 1,600 staff across the state who are conducting research in vital areas such as animal nutrition, climate change adaptation, aquaculture breeding, and biosecurity surveillance and response. For the dairy industry, these upgrades signify more than just new facilities; they represent a stronger commitment to the research and innovation that drive growth and resilience in agriculture.
Research and development are essential to the future of NSW's agriculture, laying the groundwork for climate resilience, food security, and economic growth. This historic investment will enhance the state’s ability to respond to emerging challenges and capitalise on opportunities in agriculture, ensuring a prosperous future for regional communities.
The upgrades will also extend to five emergency response sites, which serve as operational hubs during times of crisis, including floods, bushfires, and biosecurity outbreaks. These upgrades will ensure that NSW can better manage and respond to emergencies, minimising the impact on communities and industries. For dairy farmers, this enhanced capacity could be a game-changer during extreme weather events, reducing downtime and safeguarding their livelihoods.
One of the most exciting components of this investment is the development of a state-of-the-art dairy facility at Tocal Agricultural Institute in the Hunter Valley. This new facility will prioritise animal welfare and sustainability, integrating cutting-edge technology to create a modern, efficient system using robotics and other innovative solutions. Darren Bailey, Director of Education at Tocal, shared his enthusiasm in a recent interview on ABC Newcastle Breakfast Radio:
“We’re excited by the announcement from the NSW Premier and the Minister for Agriculture. The upgrade to Tocal's dairy means transformative change for our students and the broader dairy industry.”
Tocal Agricultural Institute plays a critical role in training the next generation of dairy farmers. With around 140 students engaged in the dairy each year, the upgraded facilities will provide hands-on experience with the latest technology in animal handling, pasture management, and agronomy. The new dairy facility will not only enhance educational outcomes but also serve as a hub for industry research, offering updates and insights to dairy farmers across the Hunter region and beyond.
The upgraded facility will introduce loafing barns to mitigate the impact of extreme weather on dairy cattle. These structures, equipped with large fans to regulate temperature, will significantly improve animal welfare and milk production during heatwaves and wet conditions. Bailey explains, “These upgrades are not just about providing shelter; they incorporate high-tech solutions like biodigesters for energy production, advanced solar systems, and robotics that streamline farm operations.”
While some of the technology being introduced might seem basic, such as shelters for cows, it’s what happens inside that truly sets the facility apart. The inclusion of automated milking systems and robotics will help transform dairy operations, allowing cows to be milked without manual intervention. This technology provides greater precision in monitoring individual cow health, enhancing animal welfare and farm productivity.
Currently, 80% of dairy farms across Australia still rely on manual milking systems. However, the rise of automation offers a glimpse into the future of dairy farming. Tocal’s new facilities will enable students to train with both manual and automated systems, preparing them for the evolving technological landscape of the industry.
Keeping pace with technological advancements is an ongoing challenge for educational institutions like Tocal. Students are learning with cutting-edge tools, from digital mapping using drones to tractors equipped with variable rate technology and automated steering. Bailey emphasises the importance of ensuring that students graduate with the skills needed to succeed in the industry:
“Technology is rapidly evolving, and it’s crucial that our students are not only familiar with the latest equipment but also confident in using it to its fullest potential.”
This historic investment by the Minns Government marks a pivotal moment for NSW’s dairy industry. By upgrading research facilities and emergency response sites, the government is ensuring that farmers are better equipped to face future challenges and seize opportunities. For NSW dairy farmers, this commitment to research, innovation, and resilience offers a brighter future—one where technology and tradition come together to support a thriving and sustainable industry.
Dairy NSW looks forward to working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and the State Government, as this project takes shape; and thanks, the NSW Government for its show of confidence and support of the long-term prosperity and viability of NSW dairy. As Bailey puts it, “We’re not just producing milk; we’re producing the future of agriculture in NSW.”
