Synthesis of data to optimise yield potential of barley in Australian farming systems

This investment aims to review existing research data gathered for barley production to develop strategies for improving productivity and identifying knowledge gaps to be addressed in maintaining future yield gains. On average, 9-10 million tonnes of barley is produced annually across 4 million hectares from southern Queensland to Western Australia, making it Australia's second most important crop (ABARES, 2021). Between 30-40% of the crop achieves malting grade with the remainder used either for human consumption or stock feed (AEGIC, 2022). Despite this, the current role of barley in crop rotations is being challenged, and Australian farming systems must continue to adapt in response to a changing climate. The warming and drying of the climate in southern cereal production areas has occurred since the 1990s, and water-limited potential yields are influenced by increasing threat of frost events and warmer spring temperatures (Hochman et al. 2017). Compared to wheat and canola, barley is typically more broadly adapted and has varied responses to abiotic stresses. However, many barley growing regions of Australia are reportedly only achieving between 35-60% of water-limited yield potential (https://yieldgapaustralia.com.au). There is significant scope to manipulate barley to improve yield and reduce production risk, to adapt to a changing climate. In addition to meeting market requirements, grain yield and stability of yield are the most important contributors to farm profitability. An evidence-based approach to better understand production gaps and the physiological drivers of barley yield in response to Genetics x Environment x Management will deliver improved yield outcomes and efficiencies nationally.