This project improves how farms operate and profit in areas near the Great Barrier Reef by using economic analysis.
What we do
Our team of regional agricultural economists works across several Reef Water Quality projects to provide analyses that are used to improve business profitability and resilience for agricultural industries. Economists are based in key agricultural regions to enable direct engagement and collaboration with internal and external service providers.
We integrate economics into:
- research trials
- case studies and extension
- farm demonstration sites
- modelling exercises.
We develop economic information to help producers weigh up the costs and benefits of best-management practice options.
Evaluating new technologies and management practices enables farmers to identify new opportunities to adjust their farming systems, such as:
- rotational crops
- improved pastures
- automated irrigation.
We are also investigating opportunities for farmers to access environmental markets.
Economic decision-support tools
Producers can use these decision-support tools to explore different farming options before making a financial commitment.
FEAT Online
A free tool that helps sugarcane growers measure farm profits and assess changes to their farming systems.
Breedcow and Dynama
A free tool that assists beef cattle producers in planning, evaluating, and improving the financial performance of their enterprises.
Regional economist publications
Our publications include economic resource sets about:
Our regional economists publish and distribute their work at agricultural and industry conferences. including:
- Australasian Agricultural & Resource Economics Society (AARES)
- Australian Banana Industry Congress (ABIC)
- Australasia-Pacific Extension Network (APEN)
- Australian Society of Sugar Cane Technologists (ASSCT)
Get involved
For more information, contact us online, by phone or in-person.
Last updated: 23 Apr 2025