Our Year in Review

December 16, 2025

Welcome to another ‘Quick Year in Review’ covering 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

The 2024–2025 year was a period of energy, growth, and purposeful action for the Crawford Fund for Food Security. This Quick Year in Review offers two ways to explore that work. It provides a concise snapshot of our activities and achievements, and, for readers who wish to look more deeply, it offers pathways to richer stories, resources, and reflections on the year that shaped us. What follows presents a clear picture of how we advanced our mission to champion international agricultural research, strengthen Australia’s role in global food and nutrition security, and support the people whose expertise turns knowledge into impact.

This year also marked a significant turning point for the Crawford Fund for Food Security (CFFS) with the adoption of a new strategy that returns the organisation to its core purpose. We renewed our focus on promoting the benefits of Australia’s involvement in international agricultural research and on advocating for increased national effort in this vital field. The activities reported in this review reflect work undertaken before this strategic shift. In the years ahead, you will see a clearer, more intentional direction, with our outreach, partnerships, training, and advocacy aligned to the refreshed mission and the role we aim to play in strengthening Australia’s contribution to global food and nutrition security.

Our work reached across Australia and partner countries. Scholars, students, trainers, mentors, journalists, researchers, and volunteers formed the fabric of a community driven to improve lives through better science, stronger systems, and shared purpose. Their dedication is visible in every section of this review. It is seen in workshops held in Indonesia, training on soil health in Laos, mentoring in Fiji and Nepal, guiding early-career scientists at international gatherings, and supporting journalists who bring attention to stories that matter.

The year was also marked by moments of recognition. We celebrated the achievements of researchers whose work is improving crops, supporting farmers, and strengthening food systems worldwide. We welcomed new leaders into our organisation and honoured those whose service has shaped the CFFS identity. We also remembered colleagues who made lasting contributions to agricultural research and to the broader community.

As you read on, you will see the breadth of what can be achieved through collaboration, commitment, and a clear sense of purpose. You will also see how a small team, supported by volunteers, partners, government, industry, and generous donors, helps build capability across regions where food security challenges and opportunities stand side by side.

Thank you for your interest in our work. We hope this review brings insight, pride, and encouragement for the year to come.

Shaun Coffey FTSE FAIA CRSNZ FAICD
Chief Executive