Switch to native plants ‘can boost farm income’

Farming systems that grow native plants to provide biofuels and livestock fodder could contribute $1.6 billion to Australia’s economy by 2030, according to studies at a national agricultural research centre.

Speaking at a conference in Canberra, the Future Farm Industries Cooperative Research Centre’s chief executive Peter Zurzolo said native perennials were already delivering economic, agricultural and environmental benefits to Australia’s farmers.

He estimated that around 5,000 farmers were involved in the CRC’s research to trial improved grazing systems, and were now using native perennials to supplement or replace traditional pasture.