10 Things to Know - 27 January 2026

  1. QFF has launched a new website, making it easier for members and stakeholders to access QFF project updates, resources and advocacy priorities in one place. The refreshed site improves navigation, accessibility and showcases QFF and our members’ work on behalf of Queensland agriculture. Take a look at the new site here.
  2. ABC News has published a story exploring the history of CANEGROWERS, Queensland’s peak agricultural body for the sugarcane industry, who are celebrating 100 years of fighting for cane farmers. Read it here.
  3. Greenlife Industry Queensland (GIQ) is just two weeks out from its first Trade Day of 2026, the Northshore Trade Day, at a new northside location. Buyers are invited to register now for this free, trade-only event, while GIQ Nurture and Thrive members interested in exhibiting can also register now to secure a site and connect directly with buyers.
  4. Queensland’s Biosecurity Boost Grants Program is now open, supporting innovative and education-focused projects that strengthen biosecurity preparedness and resilience across the state. Grants are available for innovation projects ($30,000) and education initiatives ($15,000) that improve practices and drive behaviour change. Applications close midday, Monday 16 February 2026. Read more and apply here.
  5. Lactalis has confirmed it will close its South Brisbane milk processing facility in July 2026, with Queensland and northern NSW milk redirected to other plants. eastAUSmilk says the long-expected decision raises concerns about future competition, milk pricing pressure and impacts on producers as contracts near expiry in 2027. Read more here.
  6. Industry input is being sought to shape Australia’s 2026 Occupation Shortage List, with Jobs and Skills Australia inviting employers, industry groups and peak bodies to share on-the-ground insights. The survey is a key opportunity for agriculture to highlight persistent workforce shortages and inform future skills, training and migration policy settings. Read more and register here.
  7. Primary producers impacted by the early 2025 North and Far North Queensland Tropical Low now have more time to apply for disaster recovery assistance. The application deadline for QRIDA Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants of up to $75,000 has been extended to 14 August 2026. Read more and apply here.
  8. The National Farmers’ Federation has released its 2026–27 Pre-Budget Submission, calling for long-term investment to support a farm sector nearing $100 billion in production. Read more here.
  9. A recording is now available from Cotton Australia’s webinar on mandatory audiometric (hearing) testing under WHS laws. The session clarifies when testing is required, what noise levels apply, and practical steps growers can take to manage noise risks on farm. Watch the full recording here or read more and view the summary here.
  10. The northern cattle industry is alert with confirmed cases of lumpy skin disease detected in the tourist hotspot of Bali. Read more here.

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