Cultivating Intelligence: How AgriFood Tech is Feeding and Clothing the World
Get ready for Something Tech 2025, Australia’s premier cross-industry innovation festival! Taking place 28–29 August at Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane, the event brings together the brightest minds in robotics, AI, medtech, cleantech, space tech, and agri-food tech to explore the future of innovation.
On the schedule is the Farmers2Founders-led panel, “Cultivating Intelligence: AgriFood Tech Feeding and Clothing the World,” where Aussie’s in the ag-tech industry will discuss how technology is transforming agriculture and food systems. Agricultural Robotics’ co-founder, Amanda White, is invited on stage to share insights from the frontlines of robotics and automation in Australian horticulture.
The panel will explore the ways advanced technologies are transforming the global food and fibre supply chain, with a particular focus on Australian agriculture. For farmers, adopting automation and robotics is no longer optional—labour shortages, rising costs, and the increasing demand for consistent, high-quality produce are forcing the sector to innovate. Robotics and AI offer solutions that improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainability, but the human element remains critical to success.
We want to highlight the importance of upskilling regional and remote workers to operate and maintain robotic systems. In Australia, over 30% of the agricultural workforce is based in regional and remote areas, yet these communities often face chronic labour shortages. By training locals in robotics, we can create high-skill jobs, strengthen community resilience, and ensure technology adoption delivers real benefits to farmers on the ground.
The discussion will also cover how integrating agri-food tech into everyday farm operations not only boosts productivity but also enhances climate resilience and food security. By combining innovation with human expertise, Australian farmers can sustainably meet growing domestic and global demand while building more resilient agricultural systems.
Why it matters to Australian farmers:
- Reduces reliance on seasonal and transient labour
- Increases harvesting efficiency and consistency
- Minimises food waste and maximises yield
- Creates local, skilled employment opportunities
- Builds resilience against climate and market pressures
Something Tech 2025 provides a platform for cross-industry collaboration. Connecting farmers, engineers, researchers, and investors will shape the future of Australian agriculture. Agricultural Robotics is excited to contribute to this conversation and showcase how practical, scalable technology can empower farmers while supporting regional communities.
