Extension is the practice of transferring knowledge and skills to individuals, communities and organisations in agriculture and natural resource management to improve economic, social and environmental outcomes and create positive change.

The current state of the agricultural extension sector in Australia reveals a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. 

While significant research has highlighted the importance of building capacity and capability among farmers, the specific capacity (time and resources) and capability (skills, expertise and knowledge) requirements of extension practitioners have received less attention. The map and gap analysis informs rural Research and Development Corporations on strategic planning and resource allocation, to ensure there is adequate extension capacity and capability available to support Australian agriculture into the future. 

A key recommendation is that industries should ensure adequate resources are available for extension programs or projects (or the extension component within a project) via: 

• extending funding timeframes 
• embedding extension principles from the beginning of projects
• incorporating effective project evaluation
• ensuring project funding allows for capability-building opportunities.