Government pledges extra $24m to grain R&D

The state government has announced an additional $24 million in funding for grain industry research and development, taking the total figure to $45 million over the next four years.

The $45 million investment will be used to leverage co-investment from the federal government and other sources for a new cropping system research program, genetics and crop protection projects, and grain market research.

In 2018-19, the state government will invest $14 million, with $10 million per year in the final three years.

Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the funding would provide essential support to the grain industry.

"Strong farm businesses are absolutely critical for regional economies and jobs, but our grain farmers are facing unprecedented competition from producers in the Black Sea and Argentina,” she said.

"We need strong government investment in agricultural research and development to stay ahead of the game; our $45 million investment will give WA's job-creating grain industry the support it needs to move up the value chain and stay competitive.

"This funding will help the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development retain and build its renowned excellence in grains research, and will bring tangible benefits for grain producers on the ground in regional WA."

WA is the biggest grain producer in Australia, exporting more than 85 per cent of its production.