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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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Be a good egg – help stop the spread of AVG this Easter
17 April
Fishers heading out to enjoy South Australia’s waters this Easter and Anzac Day long weekend are reminded of the abalone fishing closure that is in place due to the Abalone Viral Ganglioneuritis (AVG) outbreak.Read more about Be a good egg – help stop the spread of AVG this Easter -
Bring the chocolate, leave the fruit and vegetables at home this Easter
16 April
As the Easter long weekend approaches, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is urging all travellers to leave restricted produce behind and help protect the Riverland’s vital horticulture industry from fruit fly.Read more about Bring the chocolate, leave the fruit and vegetables at home this Easter -
Consultation open on new regulations for SA’s veterinarian profession
16 April
Don’t miss the opportunity to provide feedback on the new regulations for South Australia’s veterinary profession.Read more about Consultation open on new regulations for SA’s veterinarian profession -
Applications now open for second round of drought infrastructure grants
16 April
Applications have opened for additional grants through the State Government’s On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Rebate Scheme, which includes grants of up to $20,000, to support drought affected farmers across South Australia.Read more about Applications now open for second round of drought infrastructure grants -
Building works commence for South Australia’s Forestry Centre of Excellence
11 April
The establishment of the $16 million Forestry Centre of Excellence has gathered momentum with construction commencing of the permanent purpose-built facility at Mount Gambier’s Research, Education and Training precinct.Read more about Building works commence for South Australia’s Forestry Centre of Excellence -
Gather Round the fruit fly restrictions
10 April
The Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) is reminding those travelling to and around South Australia for the AFL’s Gather Round to leave restricted produce behind.Read more about Gather Round the fruit fly restrictions -
SA Karenia mikimotoi algal bloom update
10 April
The South Australian Government met with relevant state and federal agencies and affected councils regarding the ongoing microalgae bloom, Karenia mikimotoi, on Wednesday 9 April.Read more about SA Karenia mikimotoi algal bloom update -
Eco-meal champion Kelly Johnson wins 2025 South Australian Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award
9 April
Entrepreneur Kelly Johnson has been named South Australia’s winner of the 2025 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award for her innovative work in transforming food waste into eco-conscious meals.Read more about Eco-meal champion Kelly Johnson wins 2025 South Australian Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award -
$55 million in new funding support for drought affected farmers across SA
8 April
The Malinauskas State Government has today announced a further $55 million package of comprehensive assistance to support drought affected farmers and communities across South Australia.Read more about $55 million in new funding support for drought affected farmers across SA -
Thriving Communities enabling upgrades at Port Broughton sporting facilities
4 April
Members and visitors at 2 Port Broughton community sporting facilities are set to enjoy easier access to clubrooms and facilities thanks to the State Government’s Thriving Communities program.Read more about Thriving Communities enabling upgrades at Port Broughton sporting facilities
