Strategic blueprint to outline best course for the grains sector
The State Government has committed $140,000 towards a South Australian Grain Industry Blueprint.
Grains is the latest agricultural sector in South Australia to receive funding for a strategic blueprint, following in the footsteps of the sheep and beef industries.
It will be the first time South Australia’s grain industry will have a whole-of-industry focused strategic plan to drive further growth and value in the state’s largest agriculture sector.
Primary Industries Minister Tim Whetstone said the State Government had committed $140,000 to Grain Producers SA for the development of the blueprint.
“There are significant opportunities for the grains industry to grow through the development of supply chain efficiencies, new industry sectors and varieties, adoption of emerging technologies, research, development and extension, market access and value-adding,” he said.
“The grains industry has advocated for a whole-of-industry, whole-of-supply chain blueprint to outline the long-term industry development goals and I’m pleased to work with GPSA to develop such a plan.
“The blueprint will be developed with input from the entire industry, from growers, traders and exporters, to domestic processors and other value adders, research, transport and bulk handlers.”
South Australia’s grain industry is one of the state’s largest economic contributors for primary industries and agribusiness revenue, contributing almost $4.2 billion in 2017—18.
There are an estimated 4500 grain farmers in South Australia.
A working group with industry members will be established and tasked to drive the blueprint development project, ensuring each part of the value chain is included.
Grain Producers SA chief executive Caroline Rhodes said there were enormous opportunities to grow the grains sector in South Australia.
“Having a blueprint to work from could be a game changer,” said Ms Rhodes.
“The South Australian Grain Industry Blueprint strongly aligns with GPSA’s vision to ensure a profitable and sustainable grain production sector. We believe this project will support future investment and policy decision making across the industry, by developing targets for the entire supply chain.”