Date: 12 September 2025 The ARC joined Western Sydney University to celebrate the launch of a new Training Centre focused on strengthening Australia’s protected cropping industry through innovation, training, and collaboration. ARC A/g Branch Manager Executive and Communications Ms Judy Satrapa, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor (Research) at Western Sydney University Professor Deborah Sweeney, Director of this ARC Training Centre Professor Oula Ghannoum Member for Macquarie Ms Susan Templeman MP, and Distinguished Professor Brajesh Singh at the official launch of the ARC Training Centre for Smart and Sustainable Horticulture. The ARC attended the official launch of the ARC Training Centre for Smart and Sustainable Horticulture at Western Sydney University on 10 September 2025. The Training Centre is focused on building the skills, knowledge and technologies, to strengthen the protected cropping industry – an essential industry for the sustainable and climate-resilient production of food. It will train the next generation of researchers and industry leaders to drive innovation, sustainability, and resilience for the protected cropping industry. Students and early-career researchers will work in interdisciplinary teams, collaborate directly with industry, and gain the hands-on experience needed to lead Australia’s horticulture sector into the future. ARC A/g Branch Manager Executive and Communications Ms Judy Satrapa speaking at the launch of the ARC Training Centre for Smart and Sustainable Horticulture at Western Sydney University. Photo: Supplied. The Training Centre’s research training is structured around four key research programs: Optimal production of future high-value crops for expanded markets – aims to increase the types of crops that can be grown in polytunnels, glasshouses, and vertical farms.Advanced crop health and yield – aims to develop and enhance strategies for minimising crop stress and disease through early detection and improved microbiomes.Net-zero solutions – aims to develop low-input, and low carbon technologies and policies to strengthen the sustainability of the protected crops sector.Socioeconomic challenges of technology integration – aims to identify and address the main bottlenecks showing technology adoption and consumer satisfaction. By fostering collaboration between researchers, industry, and government, the Centre is positioned to deliver tangible benefits for Australia’s economy and food security. Its mission-driven approach reflects a broader commitment to advancing national productivity, public benefit, and long-term resilience in horticulture. Read more about the ARC Training Centre for Smart and Sustainable Horticulture.