Collaborative approach is fundamental to maximise RD&E outcomes in emerging industries
SOURCE: AgriFutures
A growing number of new and emerging rural industries are bringing opportunity, diversity and resilience to rural Australia and have the potential to make significant economic, social and environmental contributions. The AgriFutures Emerging Industries Program is encouraging industry players to work together to pool their resources, collective knowledge and face challenges with a united front to achieve strategic outcomes and gain competitive advantage.
AgriFutures Australia Manager Emerging Industries, Laura Skipworth said one of the fundamental components in growing Australia’s emerging industries is developing thorough research, development and extension (RD&E) plans.
“RD&E plans are designed to not only detail the priorities for an industry, but to also identify any key opportunities and barriers to growth,” she explained.
“A considerable amount of work goes into the development of an RD&E plan, from desktop research, to stakeholder engagement. A plan paints a picture of the current state of the industry, where it wants to get to, and how.”
Ms Skipworth said although emerging industries generally have a small support network, fostering collaboration – sharing knowledge, learning from each other’s experiences and ensuring plans are representative of the entire industry – is central to success.
“It is vital to have whole of industry buy-in and perspective,” said Ms Skipworth.
“Involving industry stakeholders from across the entire supply chain – producers, processors, transport and logistics, wholesalers, researchers, industry bodies – means that RD&E plans are representative of the entire industry.
“Importantly, those who make up the industry at all levels feel a sense of ownership and an increased desire to drive the implementation of the plans.”
Cultivating an industry wide approach crucial to success
One emerging industry that is rapidly gaining momentum is the Australian seaweed industry. Jo Kelly, CEO of Australian Seaweed Institute, said it has taken a collaborative effort to drive industry growth.
“Collaboration has been crucial for developing a seaweed industry strategy and plan. The Australian Seaweed Industry Blueprint was developed over several months with input from stakeholders across research, government and industry nationally.