R.E. HARRISON

c/- "Bilarabyn.", Mail Service 185, Beaudesert, Qld. 4285

Abstract

A brief review is made of the introduction of tropical and sub-tropical pasture species into northern Australia and the subsequent rise and fall in the area of improved pasture that was planted annually between 1970 and 1984.
Some of the reasons for this rise and fall in plantings are discussed and the relation of input costs to the returns from beef, wool and milk over the period 1967 to 1984 is examined.
Specific roles of improved pasture in primary production are identified and some suggestions are made as to where more research could assist primary producers to get more value from their pastures. Possible changes in the use of phosphatic and nitrogenous fertilisers are discussed in relation to their comparative prices.
The role of improved pastures in developing countries of the world is also discussed for both traditional subsistence farmers and for larger ranches and government projects.