Over three-quarters of lucerne seed is produced under irrigation, with South Australia the predominant supplier. The area planted with lucerne during the 1990s has increased but, due to unseasonable weather affecting insects, pollination and harvest time, production has not yet achieved its full potential. This illustrates the risk in lucerne seed production as the requirements of a successful crop are demanding. A levy base will provide the scope for an expansion of the research program to include sub-tropical species. While export growth represents the biggest opportunity for expansion of the industry, Australia has been a relatively minor player in the international market.
Pasture seed is exported to Africa, Asia, Europe, USA, South America and the Middle East.
Location in the southern hemisphere provides Australia with the opportunity to produce and market seed in the northern hemisphere off-season. Despite this advantage the export market is very volatile with large fluctuations in exports for individual markets. Back to Table of Contents Key Issues for the Industry During the two workshops and industry meetings, key issues for the industry were discussed in depth. Development of export and import replacement opportunities for Australian pasture seed growers Development of production technologies to multiply overseas species and cultivars for re-export. Development of production technologies for species and cultivars suitable as import replacements.