In 2022, the New South Wales government set an ambitious goal for the agricultural sector, envisioning AgTech as Australia’s next $100 billion industry by 2030. Fast forward two years, and this vision is rapidly materializing, with Australian farmers at the forefront of a digital revolution in agriculture. The surge in AgTech adoption is driven by global population growth and rising food demands, compounded by the pressing challenges posed by climate change. Rather than simply responding to these pressures, Australian farmers are positioning themselves as global leaders in implementing innovative agricultural technologies.
The digital transformation of farming, once a futuristic notion, is now a tangible reality across Australia. Key to this evolution has been the enhancement of on-farm connectivity, which has significantly advanced since 2022. Collaborations between the National Broadband Network (NBN) and the National Farmers’ Federation have improved high-speed internet access in rural areas, enabling farmers to incorporate transformative technologies such as remote monitoring, automation, and big data analytics into their operations.
A recent Roy Morgan survey reveals the extent of this adoption, with a staggering 89% of Australian farmers either currently using or open to using AgTech solutions. Notably, 72% of farmers are actively leveraging these technologies, which range from smart irrigation systems to automated machinery and sophisticated data analytics. The low attrition rate among AgTech users—only 6% have tried it but opted out—underscores the technology’s effectiveness and its growing value in practical applications.
Farm management software stands out as a leading tool among Australian farmers, providing a comprehensive platform for managing various aspects of farming, including paddock mapping and animal genetics. Electronic ID (eID) tags have revolutionized livestock management, allowing for real-time tracking and data collection. Satellite technology and precision farming techniques guide resource allocation and planting strategies, while drones and remote sensors enhance monitoring capabilities across vast agricultural landscapes.
Despite the promising landscape of AgTech, barriers to adoption persist. High costs are cited as the primary obstacle by 66% of farmers, while 37% express a lack of knowledge regarding available technologies. Connectivity issues plague 36% of farmers, making the use of many AgTech tools impractical. Additionally, some farmers perceive a lack of necessity for AgTech, with nearly a quarter believing the benefits do not justify the investment.
Nevertheless, the overall picture is one of optimism and progress. The Roy Morgan survey, which included insights from a diverse range of farming operations, indicates that Australian farmers are not only embracing AgTech but are also setting a global standard in agricultural innovation. As they continue to integrate advanced technologies into their practices, the potential for AgTech to reshape the future of farming in Australia—and beyond—remains significant.
