Australia has a long tradition of innovation in agriculture. Graeme Philipson looks at the current state of play, and how the state and federal governments are fostering the country’s innovators.

Northern Australia has substantial areas of undeveloped lands with untapped water resources and soils that are suitable for more intensive food and fibre production. So where do the opportunities lie? And what are the challenges? David Crombie, Director of the Australian Agricultural Company and former President of the National Farmers’ Federation, provides some answers.

South Australia’s clean and green reputation, six-star food and wine products and burgeoning links to China make the state’s agriculture and agribusiness sector ideally placed for growth. The establishment of Investment Attraction South Australia (IASA) has facilitated this growth, identifying key investment opportunities and developing an impressive track record in just its first 12 months.

South Australia has a long history of excellence in food and wine dating back over 150 years, and a reputation for unimpeachable food safety. The industry is the backbone of the state’s economy and is only growing as consumers from all over the world clamour for South Australia’s premium products.

The state of South Australia and the Chinese province of Shandong celebrated the 30th year of their sister-state relationship in 2016. Thanks to the significant effort of governments in both countries, it is a model relationship that provides a template for other states and provinces to follow.

Former Victorian Premier John Brumby takes a look at the role of the government - both federal and state - in fostering innovation.

Australian Certified Organic is the largest certifier of organic goods in the country. Products sporting the distinctive Bud logo not only have the advantage of certification, but also the market assistance provided by its parent company, Australian Organic Ltd. With global demand for organic produce steadily rising, the considerable advantages and opportunities in gaining organic certification are invaluable.

As the mining boom has gone off the boil, we’ve heard a lot about the coming ‘dining boom’. In recent times, many experts have identified agribusiness as the next big industry for the Australian economy. But just what is agribusiness? Asks Jan Davis, former CEO of both Agribusiness Australia and the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association.

In recent years there has been a scare campaign against genetically modified food. Asher Judah finds not only is the technology safe, it is necessary if Australia is to fulfil its agricultural potential.