NT Farmers and the Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA) are driving the development of the north by undertaking a research project into supply chains. The project will provide a blueprint for government and industry on how supply chains can support the development of the Territory’s agricultural export industries.

During a visit to the Berrimah Export Yards, the Minister for Northern Australia, Hon. David Littleproud today said the NT Agricultural supply chains project will help the Territory capitalise on its strategic location.

“This project will support the NT become Australia’s gateway to international markets. The findings will provide a pathway for farmers to access lucrative global markets.

“The CRCNA and NT Farmers have done a great job bringing the key industry players and supply chain stakeholders to the table and working to develop an R & D venture which will build on the knowledge and opportunity we know is already here and deliver a strong platform to deliver economic outcomes for the north,” Minister Littleproud said.

NT Farmers Association CEO Paul Burke said the year-long project will utilise data modelling to assess export opportunities for a broad range of agricultural sectors including aquaculture and forestry.

“Comprehensive evaluations of reports and extensive stakeholder interviews will provide an insight into current supply chains and how they can be improved,” he said.

As project lead, the NT Farmers will work with its industry and project partners and Steering Committee,  who will help to identify export opportunities and improvements in current supply chain infrastructure.

“The study will provide recommendations on weaknesses in the supply chain and what constraints must be overcome to support the export industry. All aspects of supply chains will be reviewed, including legislation, infrastructure, workforce and new technology.”

“NT Farmers will generate a report at the end of the study which will provide recommendations on supply chains and opportunities for agriculture. We will work closely with government and industry to fully incorporate the recommendations for the benefit of producers and Territorians.”

CRCNA CEO Anne Stünzner  said this project will highlight where the commonalties are across the supply chain for domestic and international exporters and provide a platform for identifying and planning the enabling infrastructure required to support producers and exporters.

Northern Territory Minister for Northern Australia and Trade, Nicole Manison said the Territory Government has been exploring ways to better support the Territories export sector.

“The Territory Economic Reconstruction Final Report recommended creating further opportunities for agribusiness in the NT and supporting projects such as this brings direct benefits to domestic and international supply chains.”

“We are growing Territory agribusiness and its contribution to the economy will grow with it, that’s why we take into account future requirements for supply chains,” Minister Manison said.

“NTFarmers recognise and thank the CRCNA for investing in the project which will provide new opportunities to farmers and people in the north. The project is also made possible thanks to our invaluable stakeholders who will provide their extensive expertise to the project,” Mr Burke said.