Report: nbn connectivity could boost value of agriculture sector

New research has demonstrated the critical role of ubiquitous nbn connectivity in supporting economic growth across Australia’s agriculture sector now and in the future. The research, which is part of NBN Co’s Connecting Australia series, found that internet-enabled technologies could add $15.6 billion to the agriculture sector’s gross value of production each year, contributing to the National Farmers’ Federation goal for agriculture to be a $100 billion industry by 2030, from approximately $60 billion today.

The research found that technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) to support decision-making, real-time monitoring tools such as soil moisture sensors and autonomous irrigation systems could inject billions of dollars’ worth of productivity gains into Australia’s agriculture sector.

“Our government, along with NBN Co, is focused on delivering the broadband solutions that Australians need, and that includes our Aussie farmers. NBN Co’s dedicated regional and remote business unit is partnering with the agricultural sector on research and development so that agribusiness can further benefit from their nbn connectivity,” said Paul Fletcher, Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts.

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the research shows how new technologies could save farmers time and money, and help access new markets, thereby delivering a $1.2 billion boost to premium exports by 2030. Littleproud noted that this is why the government has announced the development of a Digital Foundations for Agriculture Strategy, to better harness the power of technology to improve farm productivity and profitability.

“Our Digital Foundations for Agriculture Strategy will complement the efforts of NBN Co and other organisations who are providing practical solutions to improve uptake of digital technologies in the agriculture sector,” said Littleproud.

Minister for Regional Health, Regional Communications and Local Government Mark Coulton said the government prioritised the rollout of the nbn in regional Australia so communities and businesses could realise the benefits of fast internet, and help rural economies maximise their potential.

“I strongly encourage farm businesses to engage with NBN Co’s agriculture development strategy and the Regional Connectivity Program to find solutions to their connectivity needs,” said Coulton.

The Connecting Australia report on agriculture was commissioned by NBN Co and undertaken by AlphaBeta.

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