Last week, Northern Australia Regional Manager Simone Cameron met with Amelia Vellar, the new CEO of the NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, to discuss the Australian cotton industry with Susan King, Regional Director – Big Rivers Region, joining the meeting online.

The briefing highlighted the development of cotton in the Northern Territory, including key opportunities and challenges. Discussions covered the department’s role in supporting the industry, with particular focus on the contribution of research farms in building awareness of northern cotton production and broader farming systems.

Key priorities identified included addressing soil constraints and matching land use to soil and land capability. The meeting also explored synergies between cotton and cattle, emphasising the importance of capturing data on feeding white cottonseed in northern cattle systems. Strengthening cotton-cattle integration could boost both regional economies and support sustainable land use practices, presenting a significant opportunity for the northern agricultural sector.