Western Sydney University has today secured a $16.7 million federal government grant to develop an Agri Tech Precinct at its Hawkesbury campus. The precinct, previously announced, aims to revolutionise Australian agricultural research and innovation, with construction slated to begin in April 2025.

Spanning 50 hectares, the new facility will serve as a hub for advanced research, education, and industry collaboration. Vice-Chancellor George Williams said the project’s goal is to establish Australia as a global leader in sustainable and resilient food systems, addressing the increasing demand for smarter agricultural solutions.

The cost of the project is expected to reach $30 million, with funding split between the federal government and the university. The Albanese government said the funding contribution fulfills an election promise under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, with 150 jobs expected during the construction phase and up to 240 additional roles created once the precinct is operational.

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said agriculture accounts for 13% of Australia’s export economy and 55% of its land mass and the investment would help to secure its competitive future. “With growing demand for sustainable, resilient food systems, the Agri Tech Precinct will help keep Australia at the forefront of innovation in the agriculture sector,” she said.

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman highlighted the Hawkesbury region’s agricultural heritage and the precinct’s role in integrating modern technology with traditional farming practices. 

“This is an important investment in the WSU Richmond campus. The Hawkesbury is the heart of peri-urban farming in NSW, with a rich tradition in food production and land management, and this initiative opens up opportunities for 21st Century agri-tech,” Templeman said.

“Not only will the Agri Tech Precinct play a growing role in the future of agriculture in Australia, but it will create hundreds of exciting new jobs plus new higher education opportunities in the Hawkesbury and Western Sydney,” she said.

Williams praised the campus’s longstanding role in agricultural education. “Our Hawkesbury campus has a long history of agricultural education and cutting-edge research. We are delighted this facility continues that proud tradition, cementing Western Sydney’s position as a world-leading hub for agricultural research and innovation.”

In addition to benefiting students and researchers, Williams noted that the precinct’s proximity to Badgerys Creek Airport could enhance export opportunities for fresh produce, strengthening ties with global markets.

Stage 1 of the project is expected to open to students by late 2025, with Stage 2 to follow.