$2 million government investment powers new era of plant research in South Australia

South Australia is cementing its position as a national leader in agricultural innovation, with a $2 million investment from the Malinauskas Labor Government driving the establishment of a world-class plant research capability in Adelaide.

The funding boost includes a $500,000 grant through the 2025 South Australian NCRIS Step-Change Co-Investment Program, building on a $1.5 million investment in 2024, and delivering a major new node of Plant SynBio Australia at the University of Adelaide’s Waite Campus.

This investment is about backing South Australian farmers and industries to stay ahead, unlocking higher crop yields, strengthening resilience to drought and disease, and future-proofing agriculture against the impacts of climate change.

The Adelaide facility will focus on key crops including wheat, barley, canola and rice, while also accelerating innovation in horticulture and plant-based products such as vaccines, pharmaceuticals and next-generation foods.

Importantly, the Government’s investment will open the door for greater collaboration between researchers, industry and startups, creating new opportunities for local businesses, driving economic growth, and supporting high-value jobs across the state.

This is a clear example of the Malinauskas Government investing in practical, forward-looking solutions that deliver real benefits for South Australians, strengthening our regions, supporting our farmers, and building a more resilient economy.

The State Government co-invests into seven national NCRIS projects in South Australia led by host institutions, including Adelaide University, Flinders University, the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) and the Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI).

Since 2007, the South Australian Government has committed $73.1 million to support 16 South Australian NCRIS facilities, leveraging $146.7 million in cash from the Australian Government and $61.6 million in cash from the host institutions.

The new node builds on South Australia’s existing strengths in plant science and reinforces the Waite Research Precinct as one of Australia’s premier agricultural research hubs.

For more on NCRIS projects, visit state development SA.