The scope of projects funded under FtRG was highly variable, incorporating a spectrum of activities including: projects which were specifically targeted to fill known gaps in established research, including further progressing research undertaken as part of previous programmes (for example, the CCRP) projects which delivered blue sky research, exploring new areas and topics which may have the potential to contribute to a reduction in emissions. Programme stakeholders were typically complementary of the spectrum of activities that were funded under FtRG: the progression of existing research through targeted projects was seen as beneficial, having the potential to realise short-term impacts and adoption Targeted projects which expanded on established research were perceived as well aligned with the intent of the programme (seen as filling known gaps in the research) and supporting the identification of practices and technologies. Through these projects, grantees and the department noted that it was possible to progress the development of practices and technologies which had the potential for immediate implementation in practice, potentially leading to emissions reduction in the shorter term. It was noted that targeted research particularly occurred as part of the round one projects, with clear links to the outcomes of the CCRP identified by grantees. blue sky research enabled grantees to progress new and emerging areas of research The inclusion of blue sky research projects (focusing on new and emerging areas) is seen as valuable for the Australian research industry. It was acknowledged that these projects typically have lower potential to contribute to the identification of practices and technologies or result in behavioural changes in the short-term. In most instances, a substantial amount of additional research would be required prior to the identification of a practice or technology which could reduce emissions or increase soil carbon sequestration. The full potential of these projects therefore will not be known for some time. The progression of existing research and projects which focussed on the development of practices and technologies which had the potential for immediate implementation were, not surprisingly, those that were generally judged to be most successful and have the greatest impact. The delivery of these targeted projects was perceived as more closely aligned with the original intent of FtRG, building on existing knowledge and ‘closing gaps’. Research outcomes There is broad consensus that the FtRG programme has resulted in a substantial amount of high quality research which is relevant to Australian industry and agricultural needs. Efforts have been made by the department to ensure that these outcomes are documented, with summary information to be detailed in the upcoming
leaders. It was noted that the programme has attracted international conferences to Australia. In addition, through involvement in the FtRG projects, the knowledge skills and abilities of Australian researchers has increased. Notably, 41 research and professional doctorates were conducted as part of the programme. The increased profile and skill of Australian research is expected to have a positive impact on the quality of future research undertaken within Australia. researchers may not retain focused on this topic within Australia, instead: focusing on other areas of research with greater funding availability relocating overseas to continue their research. Despite this, there are a number of other research grant programmes available which may support the future progression of some research conducted under the programme. Notably: the Rural Research & Development for Profit programme conducted by the department seeks to realise productivity and profitability improvements for primary producers through a range of activities including research and the generation of knowledge, technologies, products or processes the Australian Government’s science and research priorities include a number of categories which may support the furthering of CFF research outcomes, see section 3.1. While alternative research programmes and funding sources are not specifically targeted at carbon farming or emissions management it may be possible to continue research in areas addressed by CFF, with a focus on productivity. Increased skills and knowledge of extension providers Through attendance at the E&O conferences and participation in programme activities, the skills and knowledge of participating extension providers have been enhanced. Extension providers noted that they now understand and feel able to apply/communicate the concepts of CFF as well as emerging research in analysed fields. During the consultations, extension providers specified that they are intending to apply this knowledge on an ongoing basis where relevant, including: While the extension providers engaged through the consultations expressed interest in continuing to communicate the CFF themes, it is unclear whether this will occur in practice. Notably: staff turnover will result in the loss of organisational knowledge and skills, potentially limiting ongoing communication of themes while CFF is currently front of mind for participating providers, there is a risk that this momentum will be lost overtime. Competing interests and priorities are likely to change the focus on CFF and extent to which this information is communicated materials may not be available to support the ongoing delivery of extension activities relating to CFF. While materials are
maintenance of a publicly available summary/list of the CFF projects and grantees to support future awareness of the activities and grantees ensuring that a method of contacting CFF to seek further information about the programme and/or projects from the department is publicised. While some of this information is currently available on the CFF website, information could be updated to succinctly and clearly present the legacy information. Lessons learnt This section succinctly captures both those aspects of the CFF programme that worked well and those aspects where there was opportunity for improvement. Lessons learnt should be used to inform the design, implementation and management of similar large scale grant programmes. This section addresses KEQ3: What are the lessons learnt from the CFF programme(s)? Lessons learnt are captured against the following topics: programme design grant selection and application project design project focus performance management, monitoring and variations collaboration administration and management of internal resources realising impacts and outcomes ensuring programme legacy. Programme design The establishment of phased grant programmes has a number of benefits, however, would need to be carefully implemented. Where there is an expectation that the outcomes of one grant programme will inform others, staggered commencement is appropriate. The design of both FtRG and E&O was well received and conducive to the realisation of intended outcomes. These models should be considered as part of future grants programmes. Grant selection and application Where possible, ensure that grant application periods align with the needs and interests of grantees, avoiding key holiday periods or times known to be problematic within the targeted industry. When seeking to work with the research and the University sector, it would be beneficial to avoid the December/January period (aligning with University holidays) to ensure that