Connectivity has a key role in advancing Australian agriculture towards its $100 billion production value by 2030 vision, a target set by the National Farmers’ Federation.
Farming in 2030 will be different compared to today.
It will most likely be carbon neutral, in line with industry’s own vision, supported by a digitally-enabled virtual stewardship and sustainability marketplace. Through investments farmers will reap the rewards of a data windfall, possibly even sharing data along the supply chain to realise financial dividends.
On-farm digital connectivity has seen farmers connect all manner of sensors, which has allowed them to reduce the cost of inputs such as fertiliser, water and chemicals.
Vastly improved, real-time connected digital platforms are enabling farmers to better manage their soils and pasture, optimising the grazing of animals for better animal welfare outcomes and improved consumer consumption quality.
While it is already possible to digitally trade cattle from one property to another without the need to first transport them to a livestock selling centre, there’s every chance this presently ‘disruptive’ technology could become the norm.
Beyond the farm gate, the digital revolution has changed the way consumers consider the food journey.
Meat processing now involves carcase-by-carcase tracking and tracing, allowing a consumer to know exactly where their lamb chop or pork medallion has come from.
Increasingly environmentally-conscious consumers will be able to see how the meat they are consuming has been treated on-farm, understand the way the food was produced and how it was ethically and sustainably made available for consumption.
With the right investments and decisions at an individual farm level, farmers can access the nbn network to power all manner of digital agricultural operations, including in the paddock where it’s needed. These solutions are available today.
With the current strength of the sector, Australia’s farmers have a great opportunity to make investments today to enable their farm businesses long into the future.
The nbn network is made for more, including more smart farming — nbn is excited to be on this journey with you.