Precinct set to become Australia’s first high-tech commercial, teaching and research greenhouse
The Australian government has announced it will invest A$16.7mn into the Western Sydney University’s Agri Tech Precinct.
Once complete, the precinct is set to be a world-leading hub of research, innovation, incubation and production, working to advance sustainable and resilient food systems.
It will create new education pathways for future students as well as collaborative opportunities with other agricultural institutions.
“Agriculture is increasingly drawing on technology and scientific advances to manage resource use, monitor production and target pests and diseases,” said minister for agriculture, fisheries and forestry, Julie Collins.
“I am excited by the prospects of bringing our best minds and technology together in the Western Sydney University Agri Tech Precinct. Collaboration can encourage innovation and attract investment and will be crucial to growing the jobs Australian agriculture needs into the future.”
The approximately A$30mn project is jointly funded with Western Sydney University and is being delivered under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program.
“Our Hawkesbury campus has a long history of agricultural education and cutting-edge research. We are delighted this facility continues that proud tradition, cementing Western Sydney’s position as a world-leading hub for agricultural research and innovation,” said Western Sydney University vice chancellor and president George Williams.
“Offering exceptional work-integrated learning opportunities for students in agriculture and food production, it will create much-needed career pathways and a future jobs pipeline for Australia’s agricultural sector.”
The precinct will be delivered in two stages, with the government contributing to stage one of the roughly 50ha site on the Hawkesbury campus.
Construction is due to commence in April 2025, and stage one of the precincts is expected to open to students from late 2025 with stage two to follow.
