Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management the Hon David Littleproud MP has announced details of the first of eight Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs, a flagship of the multi-billion-dollar Future Drought Fund
The Australian Government will invest $8 million in the University of Southern Queensland led hub over four years, with more than $11 million contribution from hub members. UniSQ will head the Southern Queensland/Northern New South Wales hub, headquartered in Toowoomba with nodes in Stanthorpe, Roma, Longreach, Lismore and Narrabri.
UniSQ Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Professor John Bell emphasised the importance of a holistic approach to drought preparedness.
'By connecting research expertise with existing on-the-ground knowledge, we’ll help empower primary producers to be more profitable and adaptable, as well as reduce community vulnerability.'
The Southern Queensland/Northern New South Wales hub will work closely with industry, community and First Nations People and Traditional Owner groups throughout the region
UniSQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said the announcement recognised the University’s global leadership in drought and resilience research.
'We are a key service centre supporting rural communities and farmers through highly relevant research and outreach throughout the region,' she said.
