ChatGPT: OpenAI’s groundbreaking new tech forecasts the future of Aussie agriculture

ChatGPT, the groundbreaking new artificial intelligence tool, has taken the world by storm. What does it say about key issues in the regions?

ChatGPT has taken the world by storm, with the free advanced artificial intelligence tool heralded as the end – or democratisation – of education (depending on who you ask) due to its ability to spit out essays at a whim.

But it can do more than just write essays, it can respond — in full sentences! — to complex queries about literally any topic that exists on the internet.

So The Weekly Times asked our soon-to-be-overlords about the state of Aussie ag, its future and other general rural topics.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman speaks during a keynote address announcing ChatGPT integration for Bing at Microsoft in Washington state, on February 7, 2023. Picture: Jason Redmond/AFP

(Note: We generally asked ChatGPT to refine its answers to less than 100 words for readability purposes.)

TWT: Explain Australian agriculture simply.

ChatGPT: Australian agriculture involves the farming of crops and livestock for local consumption and export. Major products include cattle, sheep, wheat, sugarcane, fruits and vegetables. The industry benefits from a favourable climate, technology, and transportation infrastructure. Australia is a major global supplier of agricultural products due to its diverse and efficient agriculture sector.

TWT: Should Australia continue farming?

ChatGPT: Yes, Australia should continue farming. Agriculture is a vital sector for the country’s economy, providing food and employment for many Australians. It also helps meet the growing global demand for food as the world population continues to increase. By continuing to invest in technology, sustainable practices, and infrastructure, Australia can maintain its competitiveness in the global agriculture market. Additionally, farming provides valuable ecosystem services, such as soil conservation and carbon sequestration, which can help address global environmental challenges.

TWT: Is the Murray-Darling Basin Plan working?

ChatGPT: The effectiveness of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan is a matter of debate and ongoing evaluation. Some stakeholders believe that the plan has been successful in balancing the needs of the environment, irrigation, and communities, while others argue that more needs to be done to protect the basin’s water resources. There have also been concerns about the implementation and enforcement of the plan, as well as the impact of droughts and climate change on water availability. Overall, it is a complex issue and ongoing efforts are being made to improve the management of the basin’s water resources.

Federal Water Minister Tanya Plibersek has recently been criticised for failing to enact one of her promises to Basin communities. Picture: Dan Peled

TWT: Complete a comparative essay on culling Australian brumbies.

ChatGPT: Culling of Australian brumbies, or wild horses, is a controversial issue in Australia with arguments for and against the practice. Proponents of culling argue that it is necessary to manage the population and prevent environmental degradation, such as soil erosion and competition with native species for resources. On the other hand, opponents argue that culling is inhumane and that alternative methods, such as fertility control, should be used to manage the population. The decision to cull brumbies ultimately comes down to balancing the needs of the environment and animal welfare. Both sides of the debate have valid concerns, and a comprehensive and compassionate approach that considers all perspectives is needed to find a solution.

Per ChatGPT: “Culling brumbies is a controversial issue”. Picture: Liz Newby

TWT: What is the future of Australian farming?

ChatGPT: The future of Australian farming is expected to be shaped by factors such as technology, sustainability, global demand for food, and changing climate conditions. There will likely be an increasing focus on precision agriculture, sustainable practices, and the use of data and technology to improve efficiency and productivity. Australian agriculture is also expected to continue to be a significant contributor to the country’s economy, both through domestic consumption and export. However, the industry will need to adapt to new challenges and opportunities to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global market.

Rural readers may be familiar with the saying ‘if you sit on the fence too long, you get haemorrhoids.’ ChatGPT better have a GP appointment booked.