Summary

Rapid advancements in technologies, shifting global market dynamics and environmental conditions, and changing behaviours are creating new pressures, risks, and opportunities for Australia’s rural industries. In such a dynamic environment, we must look towards the future to understand how best to unlock the potential of emerging opportunities and mitigate against pending risks and disruptions. 

The purpose of this project is to future-proof Australia’s rural industries by conducting a comprehensive horizon-scan to identify and explore the themes and trends shaping Australia’s rural industries over the next 3-15 years. 

Building upon the horizon scan areas that AgriFutures Australia has identified and leveraging our multidisciplinary expertise and track record of delivering successful research for Australian rural industries, the project team will use a combination of expert interviews, desktop research, and stakeholder engagement workshops to identify, filter, and describe key themes, issues, and trends. Specifically, we use a range of ideation and systems-thinking methods to engage with the 15 RDCs, AIA, the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (and other relevant departments), and the National Farmers’ Federation, as well as a list of cross-sectoral “unusual suspects” domestically and globally. 

The outcome of the research will be a stakeholder-endorsed report that includes a short-list of prioritised areas for ongoing early-detection activities, four scenario explorations, and actionable recommendations for future-proofing R&D efforts. Our approach is designed to minimise duplication of horizon-scanning efforts across industry sectors, and ultimately aid decision makers and leaders in Australia’s rural industries to prepare for and thrive amidst the inevitable changes ahead.

Program

National Rural Issues

Research Organisation

Tenacious Insights Pty Ltd