Northern Australia Climate Program Phase 3: Innovative Drought and Climate Variability RD&E
Challenge
Northern Australia’s red meat and pastoral industries face ongoing risks from drought, seasonal variability, heat events, rainfall uncertainty and climate extremes. Producers need practical, locally relevant climate information that can support decisions about grazing, stocking, pasture condition, business planning and drought preparedness. A key challenge is translating complex climate modelling and forecast products into tools and advice that producers can understand, trust and use in day-to-day management.
Solution
Rangelands NRM contributed to the Northern Australia Climate Program Phase 3, supporting the delivery of climate extension and adoption services for the northern red meat industry.
The project uses Climate Mates and industry engagement to improve awareness, knowledge and confidence in using seasonal and multi-week climate forecasts. Rangelands NRM’s role included regional planning, producer engagement, feedback on climate tools, contribution to MERI reporting, case studies, training, extension activities, and support for Profitable Grazing Systems learning materials.
The project also supported feedback on products such as the Drought Monitor, Rainfall Burst, Green Date, Heat Load Index, Chill Index, Flash Drought, MJO and Northern Rainfall Onset tools.
Impact
The project helps pastoral and red meat producers make more informed decisions in response to drought and climate variability. By strengthening climate literacy, supporting practical adoption of forecast tools and improving two-way communication between researchers and producers, the project contributes to stronger business resilience, better land management decisions, and improved environmental, financial and social outcomes for northern Australia’s grazing sector.
Outcome
The Climate Mates Program supported improved access to climate information and decision-support tools for producers and supply chain stakeholders across northern Australia. Rangelands NRM helped connect producers with climate services, contributed to training and extension resources, supported case studies and reporting, and provided end-user feedback to improve the relevance and usability of forecast products.
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