Many Australian farmers have experienced relief as the most significant drought on record has been alleviated by significant rainfall across the country. Climate scientist from the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) Roger Stone has urged decision makers to take this opportunity to plan for better drought management in the future. Stone is emphasising the importance of developing a long-term strategy to combat drought. This is necessary to protect farmers, the agriculture industry and the broader economy given the ongoing threat that drought poses in Australia. There is a push for authorities to act now to better drought management, rather than wait until challenges inevitably arise again. Long-term research will be essential to improve Australia’s drought response, for example developing more efficient seasonal forecasting and identifying ways to capitalise on good rain seasons.
