Gippsland’s Regional Drought Resilience Plan (GRDRP, the ‘Plan’) continues to provide a coordinated, proactive, and community informed approach to preparing for a future of increasing climate variability. With a clear vision — Gippslanders acting now, to be well prepared for, and capable of managing the known impacts of drought and severe weather — the region is strengthening its long-term resilience through collaboration, innovation and local leadership.

The horticulture sector is adjusting to the unexpected closure of Dicky Bill Australia’s Gippsland operations, with the loss of approximately 182 jobs across its national sites. The closure of the Maffra farm has had a profound impact on local workers, including seasonal, backpacker and PALM scheme employees.

Following the detection of Tomato Potato Psyllid outside the designated Restricted Area in October 2025, Victorian producers moving plants and produce interstate will soon be required to comply with updated market access arrangements. Agriculture Victoria has developed a suite of accreditation procedures to support the movement of host produce, host nursery stock, and carrier produce.

The Pasture 365 Program is a national, long-term research initiative exploring multi-species pasture systems with the aim of providing feed for livestock 365 days a year. In Gippsland, satellite trials are underway at the Ellinbank Research Farm, Gippsland Ag Group’s Bengworden site, and numerous private properties, testing these innovative pasture mixtures in local conditions.