New national reports and food security discussions point to one clear message: we need better coordination, clearer visibility of capability, and mission‑led, long‑term investment to deliver impact at scale.

In this month’s AFII Director’s Message, Professor Owen Atkin reflects on why food security is a systems challenge, why exports matter to national resilience, and how mission‑based approaches can help Australia’s agrifood sector meet what’s ahead.

March underscored the growing complexity and volatility of Australia’s agrifood systems and the critical need for cross-sector collaboration. From resilience and fuel security to mission-led R&D, discover how ANU and partners are responding. Read more in the March message from the AFII Director.

A recent article co-written by AFII Director Owen Atkin in The Conversation Australia + NZ highlights how intense heatwaves damage crops at critical growth stages, disrupt pollination, reduce yields and place enormous stress on native species.