Real-Time Dashboard Delivers Benefits for Rice Growers

A new digital management tool is helping Australian rice growers make more informed decisions, with early results showing strong industry adoption and significant economic returns.

Developed through an AgriFutures Australia levy-funded project, the Real-Time Rice Management Dashboard combines satellite imagery, weather information and crop modelling to provide growers with up-to-date insights throughout the season.

The system helps monitor crop growth, nitrogen uptake and development, allowing growers to identify potential issues earlier and make more targeted management decisions.

Researchers say the technology can assist with fertiliser planning, drainage timing and understanding variability within individual paddocks.

The dashboard was developed by the University of New England in partnership with the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and SunRice.

Usage reached as high as ninety-five per cent among growers during the most recent season, while an AgriFutures analysis found the project is delivering an estimated six-dollar return for every dollar invested by levy payers.