The Agri-Food Research Network is an open network of Australian and New Zealand researchers interested in food, agriculture and the rural sector. The Network was established in 1992 through the instigation of Professor David Burch, then at Griffith University. Its original aim was to provide a collaborative forum for researchers interested in food, agriculture and rural issues from across different areas of the social sciences. At the time, there was no such arena for researchers from different backgrounds to gain insights from one another. These original aims continue to remain central to the Network. In the intervening period, the Network has grown ins size and scope. The AFRN annual Conferences usually bring together more than 100 researchers from different backgrounds, across the University, public and community sectors. Whilst most researchers come from Australia or New Zealand, conferences also have an international flavour, involving participants from an array of countries, both in the developed and developing worlds.

Notwithstanding its growth, the Agri-Food Research Network remains true to its original formulation. Its fundamental purpose is to generate a multi-disciplinary ‘plate’ for researchers interested in food, agriculture and rural issues to nibble from. Network conferences are designed as convivial events, welcoming of newcomers. Post-graduate students, early career researchers and food/ agriculture/rural ‘research practitioners’ from public and community sectors are especially welcome to participate in these events.

Click for more information about our organisation’s procedures.