Construction has officially commenced on a multi-million dollar rice breeding facility in Leeton, Australia. The new facility, spearheaded by Rice Breeding Australia (RBA), aims to enhance the country’s rice industry by driving genetic improvements necessary for achieving ambitious water productivity goals. Scheduled to be operational by mid-2026, this initiative reflects a strong commitment to the long-term sustainability of rice production in Australia.
According to RBA CEO Dr. Georgina Pengilley, the facility will serve as a world-class research and development hub, designed to support the industry’s future needs. “We are establishing what will be a world-leading rice research and development facility, needed to drive genetic improvement in Australian rice to sustain the future of the industry,” she stated. The project will be funded primarily through growers’ levy funds, ensuring that it is secure and beneficial for the Australian rice community.
RBA was formed in 2022 through a partnership involving AgriFutures Australia, the SunRice Group, and the Ricegrowers Association of Australia. Its primary mission is to deliver the water productivity gains necessary for the rice industry’s longevity. The new facility will be situated on a 13-hectare greenfield site and will initially include a large glasshouse complex and a 3-hectare bird-proof enclosed plant breeding nursery.
Funding for the first phase of the development has been secured from rice levies collected through AgriFutures Australia. A second phase may follow, contingent on obtaining additional funding from external sources. This phase would establish seed processing, storage, and office facilities at the new site, aimed at optimising operational efficiency and the effective use of grower levies.
Dr. Pengilley elaborated on the project’s significance, stating, “The new facility will substantially increase the scale of our rice breeding program, as well as the rapid adoption of new technologies to greatly enhance the rates of genetic gain we can achieve.” The overarching goal is to ensure that Australian rice growers have access to the latest tools, technologies, and production techniques, ultimately securing a vibrant future for the industry.
As construction progresses, further updates will be provided to stakeholders and the public.
About Rice Breeding Australia:
Rice Breeding Australia (RBA) is a not-for-profit agricultural research organisation dedicated to enhancing rice production through innovation and research. RBA focuses on delivering high-performing rice varieties tailored to meet the future needs of farmers, ensuring sustainable and profitable agricultural practices across the sector.
