Cowra Council has been made aware of possible staffing reductions at the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station. At this stage, no detailed information has been made available. However, Council expresses deep concern over the implications for local agricultural research and community livelihoods and calls upon the government to rule out any cuts.
The Cowra DPI Research Station has a long-standing reputation for advancing Australian agriculture through genetics, meat quality, nutrition, reproduction, lamb survival, national variety trials, and large-scale pasture and crop demonstration programs.
While full details remain to be confirmed, the potential reductions raise serious concerns about the station’s research capability and impact on farmers who rely on its findings.
Mayor Paul Smith expressed profound disappointment at the news: “This potential decision is deeply concerning for our region. The Cowra DPI Research Station is much more than buildings it’s a living hub of innovation that supports our farmers, our economy, and our future.” “We don’t yet know the full scope of these proposed changes, however the community can be assured Cowra Council will be in the frontline lobbying government, working with agricultural bodies, and standing up for our community’s interests.”