The research from 2001 provided the foundations for a method that has changed how breeders make decisions.
Agriculture Victoria head of agriculture, science and technology Simone Warner said the work had shaped breeding programs around the world.
Professor Warner said that DNA allowed farmers and breeders to predict performance and make decisions earlier, rather than waiting years to see the results in the field.
“They can identify the best genetics at the start, reducing time and improving confidence on-farm,” Prof Warner said.
“The technology is now widely used across all major livestock and cropping industries, with Victorian scientists continuing to develop new tools and making them even more accessible to farmers,” she said.
“The technology is now widely used across all major livestock and cropping industries, with Victorian scientists continuing to develop new tools and making them even more accessible to farmers.”
The research has helped improve key traits such as fertility, feed efficiency and disease resistance.
“These gains demonstrate how long-term investment in science and technology has translated into improved productivity and profitability at the farm gate,” Prof Warner said.
Scientists at Agriculture Victoria are leading work that is shaping the future of genomic selection through international industry and research partnerships.
The scientists are working on improving genomics through artificial intelligence, big data, sensor and drone technologies.
“These tools will help more farmers and breeders make more informed decisions into the future,” Prof Warner said.
“These benefits flow through to the broader economy, strengthening Victoria’s food and fibre sector and export competitiveness,” she said.
The cutting-edge research and innovation is supported by advanced analytics and supercomputing facilities at AgriBio in Bundoora.
