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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 help grow South Australia's aquaculture industry while supporting aquatic animal health through surveillance, education and managing disease risks. -
Commercial fishing
Get information about rules and regulations, licenses and registration plus size limits and management of South Australian commercial fisheries and processors. -
Food and beverage
South Australia’s food and beverage industries are a vital part of the state’s economy and there are major opportunities for growth locally, nationally and overseas. -
Forestry
We work with businesses and the community to promote the future of the forestry and wood products industry in South Australia, whilst seeking new opportunities for development. -
Grains and crops
Grains produced in SA include wheat, barley, canola, lentils, oats, peas, beans, lupins and chickpeas. See how we support and assist this increasingly sustainable industry. -
Grape and wine
South Australia accounts for almost 80% of Australia’s premium wine production, produced from some of the oldest vines in the world. See how we support this globally renowned industry. -
Horticulture
South Australia is a major producer of premium horticulture, recognised for its excellence in environmentally clean, safe and advanced agricultural production. Learn more about this vital industry. -
Livestock, wool and dairy
Generating billions for the economy, we support the livestock industry with services, advice and undertaking research and development to help increase trade and investment.
Latest news
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New $5 million grant round now open for regional infrastructure
25 July
The State Government has opened a new round of the Enabling Infrastructure Program, with a further $5 million available for grants of between $50,000 and $1 million for projects that strengthen regional communities.Read more about New $5 million grant round now open for regional infrastructure -
Protecting South Australia from avian influenza
24 July
Activities are underway to protect SA’s $922 million poultry industry from an incursion of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as Bird Flu.Read more about Protecting South Australia from avian influenza -
Next steps for SA’s $1.93bn wine industry
19 July
The State Government is providing more support to South Australia’s wine grape growers, committing $260,000 to help Riverland grape growers address the oversupply of red wine grapes.Read more about Next steps for SA’s $1.93bn wine industry -
LMRIA Irrigation Trust Recovery Support Program announced
17 July
Grant funding of up to $75,000 (ex GST) is being made available for irrigation trusts located in the Lower Murray Reclaimed Irrigation Area (LMRIA).Read more about LMRIA Irrigation Trust Recovery Support Program announced -
South Australia’s Young Rural Ambassador for 2024 announced
17 July
Elsie Johnson from Peake, in the Murray Mallee region, has been named South Australia’s Young Rural Ambassador for 2024 for her contribution to the community and her dedication to agricultural shows.Read more about South Australia’s Young Rural Ambassador for 2024 announced -
Putting bushfoods on the table during NAIDOC
9 July
A sensory journey exploring Australian native plants and food is a feature of a joint South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) and Red Centre Enterprises NAIDOC Week event.Read more about Putting bushfoods on the table during NAIDOC -
Digging deep – value of the soil microbiome unearthed
9 July
Researchers from SARDI, the University of Adelaide, and Flinders University have been digging deep into South Australia’s history of soil biology to gain a better understanding of how the soil microbiome functions. This will ensure sustainable…Read more about Digging deep – value of the soil microbiome unearthed -
PIRSA investigates illegal Snapper fishing
8 July
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia (PIRSA) is investigating allegations an individual illegally took Snapper that is protected under the current Snapper fishing closures.Read more about PIRSA investigates illegal Snapper fishing -
Queensland fruit fly outbreak fortnightly summary: 18 June – 1 July 2024
5 July
No new Queensland fruit fly outbreaks or extensions were declared in the Riverland in the last fortnight, with the total number of outbreaks remaining at 51.Read more about Queensland fruit fly outbreak fortnightly summary: 18 June – 1 July 2024 -
Top 10 announced for South Australia's Ag Town of the Year Award
3 July
The top 10 towns vying for the title of South Australia's Agricultural Town of Year 2024 have been selected with thousands of votes cast from around the state.Read more about Top 10 announced for South Australia's Ag Town of the Year Award