Lack of on-farm connectivity is the single greatest barrier to improving productivity and sustainability in Australian agriculture.
Farmers increasingly rely on high-level data analytics, automation and networks of devices that talk to each other. But getting WiFi coverage to run these devices over vast distances and line-of-sight obstacles is a major challenge.
This project developed antenna arrays that can be fitted to mobile and stationary farming equipment to provide long-range communication.
Tractors and trucks become roving WiFi devices with a range of up to five kilometres, providing farm-wide coverage. The technology will be a combination of adapted off-the-shelf and bespoke solutions.
The new technology was built for Australian conditions and trialled at the Global Digital Farm in Wagga Wagga, NSW.
UTS Blog - July 2025: Smart antennas spot-on for connecting the Australian bush
Final Report - January 2024: Download the final report.
FACRC Excellence Awards - October 2023: 'Research to Innovation', Winner
Digital Agrifood Summit - October 2023: Innovation Showcase
FACRC Research Symposium - February 2023: Presentation by Dan Winson, Zetifi
Media Coverage - January 2022: Read on Beef Central
Project Announcement - October 2021: View the Media Release
