Australian Honey Bee & Pollination RD&E Plan 2026-2031: Executive summary

The Australian Honey Bee & Pollination RD&E Plan 2026–2031 sets a clear direction for research, development and extension (RD&E) across the honey bee and pollination industries.

AgriFutures Australia developed the Plan in consultation with industry stakeholders. As a result, it addresses the sector’s most important priorities for the next five years.

The Plan focuses on improving beekeeper profitability, productivity and resilience. To achieve this, it supports targeted investments that deliver practical and measurable outcomes.

The Plan aligns with broader industry goals. It also complements key initiatives, including the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council strategic plan, the National Bee Biosecurity Program and relevant state-based strategies.

To maximise the value of industry funds, AgriFutures Australia will strengthen partnerships across the sector. By bringing together funding, research capability and specialist expertise, these partnerships can increase industry impact.

The Plan promotes strategic investment decisions. It balances smaller projects that provide immediate insights with larger projects that deliver long-term benefits. The Plan also encourages collaboration across the industry so organisations can improve efficiency, share knowledge and reduce duplication of effort.

The Plan identifies five priority areas for future investment. Specifically, these priorities focus on bee health, industry resilience, pests and diseases, agricultural integration, floral resources and product innovation.

Each priority includes clear impact statements and practical strategies. AgriFutures Australia can measure progress and assess investment outcomes throughout the life of the Plan.

The Plan supports a stronger, more innovative and sustainable honey bee and pollination industry. Through ongoing investment, collaboration and continuous improvement, the sector will be better prepared to respond to future challenges and opportunities.

Read the AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program RD&E Plan 2026-31 here.