Research Question

Victoria is the engine room of Australia’s fodder production (40% of Australian total, 90% sales), yet the domestic fodder production (hay / silage) is very laissez faire.  It operates primarily through many individuals making decisions depending on seasons, circumstances and local demand (unlike the fodder export industry, which has its own R,D & E plan). The Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA) suggest there may be opportunities to enhance how the domestic fodder system works to be better prepared for drought (making, storage, trading etc). Without wanting to interfere with the market, are there R,D & E opportunities to enhance our preparedness going forward, by getting RDCs (MLA/AWI/DA/GRDC) to invest in a co-ordinated way.

Research Information & Objectives

The Australian Fodder Industry Association (AFIA) is consulting industry into what RD &E is required to set up a sustainable domestic market that can cater for all phases of drought.