A new agriculture research facility has opened at La Trobe University, enabling researchers and industry partners to optimise crop management, detect diseases early, and utilise ‘big data’ for improved yield, quality, and plant health.
The research glasshouse has officially been opened by Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney following a $10 million investment by the Victorian Government to expand resources for Victorian agriculture and food research.
“We look forward to the new discoveries that La Trobe University’s agriculture researchers will uncover,” Minister Tierney said.
“By supporting Victoria’s universities, we can tap into the incredible knowledge and skills of our researchers to build a more innovative and responsive agriculture industry that meets the needs of the next generation of Victorians,” the Minister added.
La Trobe contributed $3.5 million to the glasshouses as part of the Agriculture Production Platform initiative. The facility now has controlled environment pods to develop new and enhanced plant varieties.
“This investment by the Victorian Government will help support La Trove’s world-class researchers to improve food security, agricultural productivity and sustainability, not just in Victoria but globally,” La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar AO said.
The facility helps scientists develop medicinal agriculture breakthroughs, drought-resistant plants, pesticide-free crops, and high-tech visual apparatus to identify and link physical plant features to genes. Plant breeders can use the technique to quickly select which genetic material to advance and breed.
“We’re continuing to invest in world-class research facilities, benefitting our agriculture industry both now and into the future,” Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence said.
“Research and innovation play a key role in ensuring Victoria’s agriculture industry remains productive, resilient and equipped with the best technology to solve real-world problems,” Minister Spence added.
The remaining $6.5 million will go towards developing dedicated plant phenomics growth chambers with remote digital access for regional industry, researchers, and students through the Applied Industry Agriculture Platforms initiative.
The project, which is funded by the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, supports 120 jobs related to new and expanded research, industry infrastructure, and partnerships.
