AgriFutures Australia has formed the Rice Research Development and Extension (RD&E) panel to drive forward a successful growing strategy
The Rice RD&E Panel marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Australian rice industry, as this strategic advisory group is designed to guide research, innovation and investment moving forward.
This Panel could greatly assist local Rice growers who are concentrated in New South Wales and produced 616,000 thousand tonnes in season 2023-24, an increase of 120,000 tonnes or 24% higher than season 2022-23.
With New South Wales accounted for 99% of all rice production, growers in other states, such as Victoria have long investigated ways to improve on the 2,500 tonnes, they produced in season 2023-24.
An estimated 52,000 hectares of rice were planted in 2023-24, relatively unchanged from the previous season. However, harvest increases over the previous season reached a farmgate value of $242 million.
Rice RD&E Panel formation
The Panel brings together a diverse group of experts, growers, and researchers to provide independent guidance on the RD&E priorities that will shape rice production now and into the future.
Replacing the previous Rice Management Committee and Technical Assessment Network, the newly formed Panel brings together a diverse mix of growers, researchers and industry experts. Their role is to provide independent advice on RD&E priorities that will shape rice production now and into the future.
Chair of the Panel, Professor Chris Blanchard, said one of the Panel’s first tasks will be to help develop the next five-year RD&E Plan, with the current plan concluding in mid-2026.
“The plan will be co-designed with industry and outline the AgriFutures Rice Program priorities and objectives for RD&E for the next five years.”
“I am excited to be a part of this Panel that will help us deliver real results and strengthen the Australian rice industry,” Professor Chris Blanchard added.
The Plan will be developed in consultation with stakeholders and will focus on innovation, sustainability and long-term impact. It will build on current projects and strategic frameworks to ensure RD&E investments continue to deliver meaningful outcomes for growers and the broader rice community.
AgriFutures Rice Program Manager Tich Pfumayaramba said the Panel members were selected for their deep industry experience, research expertise and commitment to advancing the rice sector.
“We’re excited to see the Rice RD&E Panel come together. It’s a vital step in ensuring our research investments are strategic and aligned with the evolving needs of levy payers,” said Tich.
“The panel’s responsibilities include evaluating research proposals and technology trials, supporting extension efforts, and ensuring that levy-funded research delivers tangible benefits to growers.”
This new chapter represents a renewed commitment to investing in RD&E that delivers results. With a clear direction, diverse expertise and strong industry engagement, the AgriFutures Rice RD&E Panel is poised to drive meaningful change and secure a sustainable future for rice growers across Australia.
The first task for the Panel was to attend the Australian Rice Conference in the Riverina NSW, a landmark event celebrating a century of rice growing in the Riverina NSW. Panel members participated in a dedicated RD&E session to engage with stakeholders and share insights into the future direction of rice research.
Meet the AgriFutures Rice RD&E Panel
· Chris Blanchard (Chair)
· Harriet Brickhill
· Darrell Fiddler
· Aanandini Ganesalingam
· Garry Knagge
· Troy Mauger
· David Moore
· Tich Pfumayaramba
Learn more about the Panel here.
