Key takeaways
The TNQ Drought Hub alongside SQNNSW Innovation Hub was proud to support the North Australian Climate Resilience in Agriculture Forum, held in Brisbane on 13–14 May, delivered by Queensland Government’s Drought and Climate Adaptation Program.
The forum brought together the CSIRO Drought Mission, industry representatives, the Bureau of Meteorology, Commonwealth Future Drought Fund programs, various Queensland Government agencies, Natural Resource Management groups, and Research and Development Corporations.
Its purpose was to unite organisations and programs that support primary producers in planning for and managing drought, climate impacts, and climate change adaptation across Northern Australia. Collaboration, communication, and adoption were key priorities, aiming to ensure future research and development initiatives deliver real-world impact for the agriculture sector.
Karen George, TNQ Drought Hub Knowledge Broker, highlighted the value of events like this, “They provide endless opportunities for everyone to connect, explore partnerships, identify common interests and uncover gaps and needs.”
Professor Mark Howden, a leader in climate change science, set the tone by emphasising the accelerating impacts of climate change on agriculture and regional systems, especially in Northern Australia. He noted:
Throughout the forum, attendees were encouraged to think critically, collaborate across sectors, and develop practical, scalable project ideas through different funding opportunities.
TNQ Drought Hub Director Professor David Phelps praised the forum and the strong commitment shown by participants to creating meaningful links.
“We know climate variability is a current, not future issue. Queensland is fortunate to have such dedicated and passionate groups working towards sustainable outcomes for our farmers through better adoption processes, improved tools, extension activities, and by sharing the right climate information.”
Looking ahead, attendees will continue to develop the ideas generated at the forum and foster long-lasting partnerships to build a more resilient agricultural sector in Northern Australia.
