May 28th, 2026Securing Victoria’s Farming Future

The state government is supporting farmers to increase production and build stronger businesses.

Victorian scientists will explore potential RNA treatments that could protect crops and livestock from diseases.

Both ground-breaking projects are funded through Labor’s $3.5 million RNA for Agriculture Program.

$1.77 million will support research into sustainable RNA-based biopesticides.

This research will target major agricultural pests, including grape phylloxera and the almond carpophilus beetle.

Phylloxera is a tiny insect that attacks the roots of grapevines, ultimately killing the plants.

Outbreaks can cause major yield losses, and there is currently no effective treatment for the pest.

The almond carpophilus beetle attacks the outer hull of almonds, significantly reducing crop quality.

The pest poses a serious threat to Australia’s $1.3 billion almond industry.

A further $1.74 million will support research into an mRNA treatment for dairy mastitis.

Mastitis is the inflammation of a cow’s udder, usually caused by bacterial infection.

This is one of the most significant health, welfare and economic challenges in dairy production.

The project aims to develop an mRNA therapy that boosts the cow’s natural immune response, enabling earlier and more effective control of infection.

This research could help reduce mastitis-related losses by up to $160 million annually in Victoria alone.