SOWING SEEDS FOR AG OPPORTUNITIES

The Central Highlands agriculture industry is constantly evolving, with producers and stakeholders turning their focus to the big issues shaping the future. Freight and logistics, workforce planning, biosecurity, and new investment opportunities are all front of mind, keeping the sector dynamic and forward-looking.

Here’s a sample of what’s coming up:

Workforce & Visas
Migration Queensland will deliver a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) information session in Emerald next Wednesday, 10 September, giving growers and employers the chance to better understand workforce visa options to address critical labour shortages. Register to attend in-person or online using this link.

Global Investment in Agriculture
Global AgInvesting Australia is the newest addition to the Global AgInvesting series, launching in Brisbane on 10-11 June 2026. The event will bring together leading institutional investors, fund managers, and industry innovators to explore opportunities in farmland, timber, and natural capital across Australia.

Water & Infrastructure Opportunities
There is growing discussion around the potential for water access to the Yamala Enterprise Area, which could unlock significant opportunities for agricultural growth. At the same time, planned developments at the Port of Gladstone have the potential to open up new markets and streamline export pathways for local producers.

Biosecurity Boost
Following an election commitment to put a strong focus on biosecurity, the Crisafulli Government is investing $50 million to recruit 100 additional biosecurity officers, many of whom will be based in rural and regional biosecurity hotspots.

Thirteen new officers have already started across Toowoomba, Biloela, Rockhampton, Cairns, and Charleville, with another 12 expected to be in place in the coming months across southern, northern, and central Queensland.

It’s never quiet in Central Highlands agriculture – new ideas and opportunities are constantly driving our region forward.