Six transformational projects led by the South-West WA Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (SW WA Hub) and funded through the Future Drought Fund (FDF) are making meaningful strides toward long-term agricultural resilience in Western Australia.
These projects, which focus on natural capital investment, renewable energy integration, methane emissions from farm dams, Aboriginal agricultural methods, enhanced water management, and agricultural waste transformation, embody the FDF’s recognition that true resilience requires not just incremental improvements but systemic, transformational shifts.
By exploring new ways of managing farmland, engaging with investors, leveraging technology, and incorporating Indigenous knowledge, these initiatives contribute to a larger movement towards climate-adaptive, sustainable, and economically viable agricultural systems.
Key findings demonstrate strong progress. The natural capital project has exceeded engagement targets, revealing high investor interest but a need for policy certainty and clear impact metrics. Renewable energy integration is proving a viable farm income stream, though governance and confidentiality issues remain challenges. Methane emissions research has refined measurement techniques, enabling better emissions modelling. Aboriginal agricultural methods are gaining traction, with a focus on knowledge transfer and landscape restoration. Innovative water efficiency technology SMART SPRAYS is advancing towards in-field trials, while potato waste transformation has shown potential as a sustainable animal feed alternative, with further work needed on moisture and bacterial content.
The projects also highlight key challenges, such as knowledge transfer barriers, investment risk perception, and logistical constraints, which must be addressed for lasting transformation. Future efforts will focus on deepening engagement, refining methodologies, and expanding adoption pathways to ensure lasting impact.
These projects demonstrate that transformational change requires collaboration across growers, industry, researchers, and policymakers. By fostering collaboration across sectors and disciplines, these projects are not only developing new knowledge but are also building networks that will continue to drive innovation beyond the funding period. Together, they signal a proactive approach to ensuring Western Australia’s agricultural landscapes remain productive and sustainable in an era of climate uncertainty.
