RIRDC’s New Animal Products program aims to accelerate the development of viable new animal industries in Australia. There are more than 40 prospective and emerging animal-based industries for which RIRDC receives research proposals or inquiries regarding R&D funding. The annual value of livestock and products traded from these industries exceeds $200 million with approximately 50 per cent traded on export markets. RIRDC has funded projects covering a broad spectrum of species and their products, such as skin, milk and meat. Projects are increasingly covering R&D across the value-added chain. For the very small industries, initial R&D is directed towards feasibility studies and the development of a business plan. Funding continues on the commercialisation of native and feral animal products where enhancement of the environment and biodiversity are not threatened. RIRDC supports R&D in the kangaroo, emu and crocodile industries, as well as gamebirds, rabbit, ostrich, dairy goats and silk production.