Australian Council
of Deans of Agriculture

Vision

To be the unified voice and catalyst for excellence in agricultural education, research, and innovation, fostering a sustainable and thriving agricultural sector.

Mission

The ACDA connects, advocates, and collaborates to strengthen the role of agriculture and food in higher education and research across Australia and New Zealand, and linkages in Asia/Pacific.

We work to inspire future generations of agricultural leaders, promote interdisciplinary research and teaching excellence, and drive meaningful partnerships with industry, government, and communities to build a thriving agricultural sector equipped to meet global challenges.

Objectives

Advance Public Awareness and Perception

  • Improve the visibility and reputation of agriculture as a vital science and profession.

  • Advocate for the critical role of agriculture in addressing global challenges and advancing environmental stewardship.

Strengthen Partnerships and Collaboration

  • Strengthen links between academia, industry, government, and communities to ensure agricultural education and research align with sectoral needs.

  • Facilitate knowledge exchange and innovation through collaborative projects and joint initiatives.

Advocate for Policy and Sustainable Practices

  • Represent the interests of university agriculture education and research in shaping national and international policies.

  • Promote sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term sectoral growth and environmental stewardship.

Foster Excellence in Teaching and Learning

  • Ensure agricultural courses and curricula equip graduates with cutting-edge knowledge, skills, and technologies to meet industry demands.

  • Facilitate collaboration and provide opportunities for agricultural educators to upskill, remain current and contribute to raising the quality of higher education agricultural courses.

  • Promote workforce diversity, safety, and inclusion within the agricultural sector.

Enhance Research Excellence and Translation

  • Support and promote strategic, interdisciplinary, and transformative research in agriculture and related fields.

  • Facilitate collaboration among universities, government agencies, and industries to address pressing global challenges, including food security, resource management, and climate resilience.

  • Support research translation to ensure real-world impact for industry and the broader community.