Agriculture and Water

Northern Australia's agriculture and water sector is a vital sector of the region's economy, culture, and well-being. At NAIF we support infrastructure that is committed to responsible water management, innovation, and sustainability, playing a pivotal role in shaping the region's future.

Agriculture

Northern Australia’s vast land area provides a range of agricultural opportunities including livestock farming, cropping, horticulture, and aquaculture. These activities contribute to local and regional economies by generating income, employment, and export revenues.

The region produces about 14 per cent of Australia’s total agricultural output, valued at around $8 billion each year. More than 8,000 agricultural businesses operate across the north, employing thousands of people and supporting local communities.*

The beef sector remains the largest, with around 64 per cent of Australia’s national cattle herd located across the northern savannas. Cropping and horticulture are expanding, particularly in areas such as the Ord River Irrigation Area, the Burdekin, and the Atherton Tablelands, where tropical fruit, melons, sugarcane and cotton are key exports. Aquaculture is also on the rise, with high-quality barramundi, prawns and other seafood supplying domestic and international markets.

These industries benefit from the north’s proximity to fast-growing Asian economies, giving producers strong export potential. Yet the region also faces unique challenges: distance to markets, variable rainfall, and high logistics costs.

Agriculture in the region often involves innovative techniques and technologies to overcome challenges such as harsh climatic conditions, water scarcity, and pest management. Research and development in agriculture contribute to the creation of new farming methods, crop varieties, and livestock breeds that are suited to northern Australia's specific conditions. With a higher risk appetite for risks unique to the north, NAIF can invest in infrastructure projects to help overcome these barriers and unlock future growth

*Source: Agriculture - Cooperative Research Centre for Developing Northern Australia

Water

Water is critically important for northern Australia due to its arid and semi-arid climates, which are characterised by limited and variable rainfall. The region's ability to grow crops, raise livestock, and support horticulture and aquaculture industries depends heavily on water availability for irrigation, especially during dry periods.

Access to reliable water sources is crucial for sustaining rural and regional communities. Many Indigenous communities still don't have reliable water sources for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and other daily needs. Adequate infrastructure for water supply is necessary for the well-being of individuals and the functioning of local economies.

Water-related activities such as fishing, boating and swimming attract visitors to northern Australia, stimulate local economies, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure. Resources industries in northern Australia also rely on water for purposes such as mineral processing, dust suppression, and workforce accommodation. Adequate water resources are necessary to support these industries and their associated infrastructure.

Given the arid nature of much of northern Australia's climate, ensuring sustainable water management practises is paramount. This involves optimising water-use efficiency, investing in water storage and infrastructure, promoting water-saving technologies, and implementing policies that balance water needs across various sectors while safeguarding the environment and communities.

Related projects

Water Corporation Burrup Seawater Supply and Brine Disposal Scheme, Western Australia