Potential for broadacre cropping in the NT

Project locations: Katherine, Darwin, Douglas Daly, Ali Curung, Alice Springs, Roper River, Townsville

Project partners: NT Dept. Industry, Tourism and Trade ; University of Southern Queensland ; CSIRO ; NT Farmers Association ; NT Dept. Environment, Parks and Water Security ; Qld Dept. Agriculture and Fisheries ; Tipperary Group of Stations ; Northern Livestock and Agriculture Pty Ltd (Ruby Downs) ; Northern Territory Agricultural Company Pty Ltd (Edith Springs Station) ; Horse and Cattle Co (Carbeen Park) ; Oolloo Farms ; Glen Arden Cattle Company ; Cotton Seed Distributors Ltd ; Cotton Research and Development Corporation

Project summary and impacts

This project assessed the Northern Territory’s land, water and climate resources to evaluate the potential for broadacre cropping industries across the Territory. Through field trials, APSIM modelling and analysis of historical climate and soil datasets, the project examined crop suitability, sowing opportunities and production risks for crops including cotton and peanuts.

The research identified strong production potential in several regions when cropping systems align with seasonal rainfall patterns and suitable soil types. The project also highlighted the importance of soil-water dynamics, irrigation scheduling and agronomic management in supporting successful cropping systems under highly variable northern conditions.

The project delivered valuable soil-climate datasets, modelling tools and agronomic insights that are now supporting grower decision-making, investment planning and future industry development. It also contributed to increased confidence in NT cotton production and supported the development of local processing infrastructure, including the Katherine cotton gin.