Organic Horticulture Research Development and Innovation (RD&I) Strategy
Major First in the Organic Horticulture Sector
We’re pleased to share a landmark opportunity for the future of certified organic horticulture in Australia. Southern Cross University, in partnership with Australian Organic Limited (AOL) — the national industry body representing certified organic interests — has secured a national Research, Development & Innovation (RD&I) grant through Hort Innovation to deliver the first-ever Organic Horticulture RD&I Strategy for Australia.
For the first time, the entire sector is coming together to co-design a national research strategy supported by all five national certification bodies: ACO Certification Ltd (ACO), NASAA Certified Organic (NCO), Bio-Dynamic Research Institute (BDRI), Organic Food Chain (OFC), and Southern Cross Certified (SXC).
What does this mean?
Australia’s organic horticulture industry is broad and dynamic — spanning orchard systems, herbs, vegetables, tropical fruits, protected cropping and more. The planned research strategy will recognise that meaningful impact must be shaped by those working within the industry every day.
Over the next 12 months, this industry-first collaboration will bring together growers, processors, exporters, researchers and stakeholders from across the country to define key priorities and build alignment.
The result?
A strategic roadmap to 2035, identifying key research needs, production priorities, and innovation opportunities to strengthen and grow a more competitive, resilient and well-connected organic horticulture sector
Get involved
To ensure your voice helps shape this strategy, we invite you to attend one of our upcoming face-to-face roundtable sessions.
These sessions are your opportunity to share insights, identify challenges, and help shape the future direction of Australia’s organic horticulture sector.
Inviting participation from:
• Certified growers and transitioning producers
• Certification bodies and advisors
• Postharvest, export and logistics professionals
• Researchers, processors, marketers
VIC Roundtable Discussion
This is an inperson round table discussion.
When: 10AM – 3:30PM, Wednesday 3 September 2025
Where: Melbourne, Victoria
Midday Online Roundtable Discussion
This is an online collaborative discussion.
When: 12PM – 1:30PM AEDT, Wednesday 15 October 2025
Where: Online on Zoom
NSW Roundtable Discussion
This is an inperson round table discussion.
When: 10AM – 3:30PM, Tuesday 9 December 2025
Where: Lismore, New South Wales
Evening Online Roundtable Discussion
This is an online collaborative discussion.
When: 7PM – 8:30PM AEDT, Wednesday 12 November 2025
Where: Online on Zoom
Book a personal consultation
Book a one-on-one interview to share your insights and help shape the future of organic RD&I investment.
For any questions or more information, please contact georgina.johnson@austorganic.com