Mallee Sustainable Farming unveils bold strategic plan

MALLEE Sustainable Farming (MSF) has launched a bold new Strategic Plan to guide its next decade of research, engagement and innovation in dryland agriculture.

Coinciding with the release of a refreshed visual identity, the Strategic Plan 2025-2035 cements MSF’s role as a trusted enabler of farmer-led research and a driver of sustainable growth for Mallee farming communities across South Australia and Victoria.

MSF chair Steve Burt said the new strategy builds on more than 25 years of success in transforming low-rainfall farming through innovation, collaboration and community connection.

“Our plan is about more than farming, it’s about shaping the future of our region,” Mr Burt said.

“We’ve worked closely with farmers, researchers and stakeholders to understand what they need to succeed. This plan reflects that collective insight and outlines our commitment to supporting sustainable, profitable and resilient farms and communities.”

The plan is anchored by three key objectives:

• Enhanced productivity and environmental outcomes.
• Improved efficiency, cost reduction and risk mitigation.
• Resilient and connected rural communities.

The plan also outlines MSF’s enabling goals, which are to ensure Mallee farmers are recognised as both economic enablers and environmental stewards, and to grow MSF’s standing as a national leader in dryland farming research and extension.

A complementary Research Plan 2025–2035 has also been released, establishing clear priorities for on-farm research, peer-to-peer adoption, and innovation. It focuses on reducing herbicide reliance, improving plant establishment and soil health, increasing pulse adoption, and supporting emerging carbon and commodity markets.

MSF research manager Penny Roberts said the organisation “will continue to deliver practical, independent, farmer-driven research that supports decision making in real-world conditions”.

“We’re building on years of existing research with new technology, data insights and collaboration to future-proof farms and communities,” Dr Roberts said.
The new Strategic Plan and Research Plan are available by visiting the website (www.msfp.org.au/reports-publications/).