Southwest WA will be better prepared for the impacts of climate change thanks to a $20 million Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub. The region has been announced as one of eight interconnected hubs established nationwide through the Australian Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund.
The hub will act as a one-stop shop for farmers, agriculture businesses and communities to connect with drought resilience expertise and translate research into on-ground impact. Community members experiencing the effects of drought can contribute to the design of new technologies and practices, to make the South West more resilient, productive and competitive.
The Australian Government has committed $8 million over four years, with $12 million of co-contributions pledged by over 40 partner organisations, including South West Catchments Council. The South West Hub will be led by the Grower Group Alliance, be based in Merredin and feature eight regional nodes, representing all of the region’s agricultural and climatic zones.
SWCC CEO Sally Wilkinson said: “The South West has been hit with the largest decline in rainfall in Australia over the past 50 years, and the frequency and severity of droughts is projected to get worse. It is vital that we innovate now and quickly convert research into scalable on-ground practice, to protect our region’s industries and environment.
“The South West Hub will provide access to innovative technologies, cutting edge research and peer-to-peer knowledge, which will transform the way producers and communities are able to prepare for and respond to drought.”
Tags: Drought
