The Australian Research Council (ARC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Ms Judi Zielke PSM, today officially launched the ARC Hub for Innovative Nitrogen Fertilisers and Inhibitors (Research Hub for Smart Fertilisers).
Led by the University of Melbourne, the ARC Research Hub for Smart Fertilisers is developing the next generation of ‘smart’ fertilisers that will support sustainable agricultural intensification, farm profitability, and the health of soils and the environment.
Ms Zielke said the Hub’s research would lead to benefits beyond the farmers who will be able to achieve greater yields with the new fertilisers.
“This research will have positive effects throughout the economy, particularly in rural and regional communities,” Ms Zielke said.
“These ‘smart’ fertilisers will also produce great outcomes for the environment by reducing the amount of nitrogen lost into the soil from fertilisers, which pollute waterways and even contribute to global warming.
“And more efficient farming ultimately means more affordable groceries at the supermarket.”
The ARC is investing $5 million over 5 years in this research hub, under the Industrial Transformation Research Program.
ARC Industrial Transformation Research Hubs support collaborative research and partnerships that focus on strategic industry outcomes which would not otherwise be achieved independently.
In this collaboration The University of Melbourne has partnered with La Trobe University, Incitec Pivot Fertilisers and Elders Rural services, and involves representatives of other key agricultural businesses and development corporations.
