Welcome to the Agrifood Innovation Institute

Driving the future of Australia’s agrifood sector

The Agrifood Innovation Institute (AFII) brings together research, government, and industry to tackle the nation’s most complex agrifood challenges—from sustainable production in a changing climate to supply and access in a technologically advanced world.

As part of the Australian National University, AFII provides a single gateway to world-class expertise and infrastructure. Our multidisciplinary teams span science, technology, economics, policy, and the humanities, help create solutions that keep Australia’s agriculture resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive.

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Latest news

Zea Maize (Corn) leaf section
Thursday, 16 Apr 2026

The C4 Rice project is a bold, long-term initiative focused on improving rice productivity and resilience by redesigning photosynthesis itself. By introducing elements into rice, researchers are working towards significantly increasing yield and water-use efficiency.

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Ripe rice at sunset
Tuesday, 14 Apr 2026

Listen to AFII Senior Fellow Robert Furbank talk about using AI and gene editing to unlock new insights in crops driving food security, climate resilience and smarter farming.

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Spore tracker
Tuesday, 07 Apr 2026

ANU-led research is building a national network of airborne spore traps to detect myrtle rust early. Funded by Australian Government agencies, the system links genetics, weather and location data to protect native ecosystems and inform agricultural biosecurity.

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As an ANU Innovation Institute, AFII is here to provide industry with streamlined access to our cutting-edge research across STEM, social sciences, economics, and law. We unite diverse teams to turn research into tangible impact, strengthening Australia's agrifood sector. Our research and partnerships focus on six priority areas where innovation is essential for the future of food and farming.

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The future of agriculture depends on people as much as technology. The AFII Innovation Training Initiative helps industry by supporting students and professionals to develop the skills and experience the agriculture sector needs to grow and thrive.

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Want to join the Agrifood Hub?

Office, lab and hot desk spaces are available for agrifood businesses, from start-ups to more established operations. This is a unique opportunity to undertake your R&D alongside Australia’s best researchers, working together to secure funding, participate in knowledge exchange, and increase research impact.

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Preview image for the video "About Us | Agrifood Innovation Institute".

Our people

Owen Atkin

Director

Mandy Nguyen

Institute Manager

Martin Amidy

Associate Director, Research Translation

Cows grazing

The AFII Strategic Investment Program supports ANU agrifood sector research with funding, aiming for real-world impacts through collaborative innovation

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Explore past updates, insights, and highlights from AFII.

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Wildlife Drones team in the Agrifood Hub

The Hub is currently home to four businesses, ranging from small start-ups to businesses with a growing international customer base.

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