What Australia’s First National Climate Risk Assessment Means for Agribusiness

Australia’s agricultural sector is facing a new era of climate risk and opportunity. With the release of the first National Climate Risk Assessment (NCRA), the government has set the stage for how farmers, agribusinesses, and regional communities will adapt and thrive in a changing environment.

Why the National Climate Risk Assessment Matters

Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment is a big step for the farming sector. The report shows that agriculture faces more climate risks than most other industries. Droughts, heatwaves, and extreme weather are becoming more common. These changes affect crops, livestock, and farm profits.

Key Climate Risks for Australian Agriculture

• Droughts and heatwaves are happening more often.
• Water is becoming harder to secure, especially in southern and eastern regions.
• Higher temperatures and less winter chill hurt crop yields and fruit quality. P
• ests and diseases are spreading as the climate changes.
• Floods, fires, and storms disrupt supply chains and farm operations.

What Does This Mean for Farmers?

The government aims to cut agricultural emissions by 28% by 2050. Agriculture is vital to Australia’s economy. It produces $92 billion a year and uses 55% of the nation’s land. The sector also uses 74% of Australia’s water and makes up about 19% of our net emissions.

Farmers are already making changes. They are improving land management, using new technology, and adopting renewable energy. These steps help reduce emissions and boost productivity.

How Does This Affect Your Business?

Climate risk is different for every farm. Each business faces unique challenges, like water shortages or heat stress on livestock. Doing a climate risk assessment helps you find your biggest risks and spot new opportunities.

Mandatory climate reporting is coming soon. If you start tracking your greenhouse gas emissions and managing risks now, you’ll be ready. Early action also builds trust with customers and lenders.

Building Resilience: Practical Steps

• Make climate risk part of your business planning.
• Use energy, fertiliser, and chemicals more efficiently.
• Reduce your reliance on grid energy.
• Improve soil health for better yields and sustainability.
• Stay up to date with government programs like the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and the Future Drought Fund.

How Boyce Can Help

At Boyce, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing Australian agribusinesses. Our team can help you:

• Identify and measure your climate risks.
• Develop clear strategies to manage them.
• Embed climate risk into your business planning.
• Prepare you for mandatory ASRS reporting.

If you want to strengthen your business’s climate resilience, understand your carbon emissions profile, or get ahead of ASRS reporting requirements, talk to our team today.