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About PIRSA
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is a key economic development agency in the Government of South Australia.
We are responsible for maintaining the prosperity of the state's primary industries and regions.
South Australia's primary industries and agribusiness generated $18.5 billion of revenue in 2022–23, with direct employment and associated processing at 78,000 (full-time equivalent). These industries accounted for 51% of the state's merchandise exports.
Key topics
Major industries
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Aquaculture
We support the aquaculture industry and manage aquatic animal health with surveillance, education, and disease response. -
Commercial fishing
See the rules, licensing and registration, and fish size limits that apply to SA's commercial fisheries and processors. -
Food and beverage
Our food and beverage industries are vital to the state’s economy, with opportunities for local, national, and overseas growth. -
Forestry
We work with businesses and the community to develop world-leading initiatives for the forestry and wood products industries. -
Grains and crops
The sustainable grains industry in SA produces wheat, barley, canola, lentils, oats, peas, beans, lupins and chickpeas. -
Grape and wine
SA accounts for almost 80% of Australia’s premium wine production, with some of the oldest grapevines in the world. -
Horticulture
Our state is recognised for excellence in environmentally clean, safe, and advanced horticultural production. -
Livestock, wool and dairy
We deliver services, advice, research and development to increase the livestock industry's thriving trade and investment.
Latest news
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Cutting edge research helping farmers on the Eyre Peninsula
30 January
Farmers across the Upper Eyre Peninsula will benefit from cutting-edge research to enhance productivity in a low-rainfall zone through a series of free events, thanks to the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), in the coming w…Read more about Cutting edge research helping farmers on the Eyre Peninsula -
Agtech on show in the Barossa and Loxton
30 January
The latest in AgTech targeting vineyards and orchards will be on show today (Wednesday 14 June) at the Nuriootpa Research Centre and on Friday at the Loxton Research Centre (Friday 16 June).Read more about Agtech on show in the Barossa and Loxton -
Hardwicke Bay grant success with a view to the future
30 January
A shelter looking out across the pristine sandy beach and crystal-clear water at Hardwicke Bay on the Yorke Peninsula has been completed with support from the State Government’s Thriving Communities Program.Read more about Hardwicke Bay grant success with a view to the future -
Illegal rock lobster sellers feel the pinch
29 January
Three people have been convicted and ordered to pay fines totalling more than $11,000 for selling and trading recreationally caught Southern Rock Lobster in South Australia.Read more about Illegal rock lobster sellers feel the pinch -
Over 100 truckloads of hay for SA farmers affected by drought
27 January
The delivery of more than 100 truckloads of donated hay to farming communities across South Australia, as a result of financial support from the Malinauskas Labor Government, has commenced this long weekend - assisting our primary producers through s…Read more about Over 100 truckloads of hay for SA farmers affected by drought -
Fruit fly outbreak in Glynde
23 January
A Queensland fruit fly outbreak has been declared in Glynde in Adelaide’s northeastern suburbs.Read more about Fruit fly outbreak in Glynde -
Heading back to school? Don’t forget fruit fly restrictions on home-grown produce
22 January
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is reminding families with students returning to school across the Riverland next week to be aware of restrictions on home-grown fruit and vegetables.Read more about Heading back to school? Don’t forget fruit fly restrictions on home-grown produce -
Fishers caught red handed with illegal Snapper catch
21 January
Three fishermen have been fined almost $4,000 after a routine inspection on the Fleurieu Peninsularevealed they were in possession of 22 illegally caught Snapper.Read more about Fishers caught red handed with illegal Snapper catch -
A new era of climate-smart farming trials in SA established
15 January
A new era of climate-smart farming has arrived for South Australia in the form of long-term research trials. These trials will help livestock, cropping and mixed farmers prepare for and respond to future climate challenges, including dry times and dr…Read more about A new era of climate-smart farming trials in SA established -
Women paving the way for leadership in agriculture
7 January
The latest round of emerging leaders in agriculture and rural communities has been selected to participate in a professional development program aimed at supporting inspirational South Australian women to take the next step in their professional jour…Read more about Women paving the way for leadership in agriculture
