Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) is preparing to host its flagship event, the PCA Conference 2025. It will take place on the 28th to 30th of July at the Adelaide Convention Centre and there's a lot to talk about this year.
The last decade has seen impressive growth in Australia's protected cropping sector, but recent global pressures are causing a cautious recalibration. "Growth has slowed in the face of high inflation, increasing input costs, and ongoing supply chain challenges," says Matthew Plunkett from the PCA. "These are not problems unique to Australia but are being felt globally."
He explains how labour remains a critical issue. "We anticipate that the industry will need 10,000 skilled professionals by 2030. Attracting and training this workforce is a key focus," he emphasizes. "Innovation and adoption of new technologies, increased investment in the latest research and development pertinent to Australian conditions, and advocating for more support within our sector will be crucial to sustain industry growth," Matthew says.
Enough to talk about, so to say, and the PCA Conference 2025 will cover a broad spectrum. From vegetables and berries to vertical farming, leafy greens, nurseries, cut flowers, and medicinal cannabis, the conference will focus on industry insights, innovation, and connection under the theme "Connect, Share, Learn".
In response to recent developments, biosecurity will be a central theme at PCA 2025. "The detection of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) in 2024 was a major wake-up call. Before that, Australia and New Zealand were the only countries without the virus. It's made us double down on our biosecurity efforts."
Despite these headwinds, Matthew remains optimistic: "While there's been a correction post-COVID, the long-term outlook is positive, though it varies by crop type. With the right investments in research, regulatory reform, and market access, the sector can continue to thrive."
Representing a growing industry
"The PCA Conference 2025 will bring together growers, researchers, allied trade professionals, students, government and non-government organisations, industry leaders, innovators, and experts to explore the latest advancements and opportunities in protected cropping," says Zak Iqbal of PCA. "It promises to be an insightful and engaging event that will inspire our growers and industry to grow profitably and sustainably."
Protected Cropping Australia is the national industry body representing commercial growers who produce crops under or within protective structures, ranging from simple shade houses to advanced glasshouses and vertical farms. "Our members grow everything from vegetables and berries to herbs, leafy greens, ornamentals, and medicinal plants, using structures such as poly-tunnels, screen houses, retractable roofs, and even plant factory rooms," Zak explains.
"Our membership is diverse, ranging from growers and equipment suppliers to consultants, researchers, and educators. We exist to advocate for our sector, support our members, and create opportunities that help the industry thrive," he adds.
PCA Conference 2025: What to expect
Set to attract over 600 delegates, the PCA Conference 2025 will feature an engaging agenda filled with keynote presentations, grower training sessions, panel discussions, and hands-on demonstrations. "We're bringing together speakers, sponsors, and exhibitors from around the globe to share innovations and practical knowledge, particularly focused on profitability and sustainability."
A returning highlight will be the popular grower training streams, with sessions designed to build core competencies in:
- Greenhouse pest and disease management
- Irrigation and fertigation fundamentals
- Energy efficiency strategies
- Business profitability frameworks
The conference will also feature networking events, farm tours, an extensive trade exhibition, and the much-anticipated conference dinner. According to Zak, their agenda is designed to offer both strategic insights and practical, on-the-ground knowledge for growers of all scales.
Who should attend?
The conference targets a wide cross-section of the protected cropping sector: from high-tech vertical farms to traditional nursery operations. "We'll be covering everything from berries, vegetables, and medicinal cannabis to nursery and cut flowers, reflecting the rich diversity of this industry," Zak shares.
To broaden accessibility, PCA will offer up to 150 free grower trade show passes, made possible through collaborations with allied trades and equipment suppliers. "This initiative is about getting more growers involved and ensuring they benefit from the training and innovations on offer," he notes.
Students and emerging professionals will also have opportunities to network and learn, reinforcing PCA's commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.
New initiatives
In a new addition to the conference program, PCA has teamed up with AusAgritech to launch Agtech Alley—a platform where startups and tech developers can pitch their solutions directly to growers and industry stakeholders. "It's a fantastic opportunity for innovators to get their products in front of the people who need them most."
Additionally, a dedicated trade and exhibition show will run alongside the conference, showcasing products, services, and technologies that are shaping the future of horticulture. Businesses interested in participating can reach out to Chelsea O'Brien, the Sponsorship and Exhibition Administrator.
For more information:
Protected Cropping Australia
Register for the event: pca2025.com
[email protected]
+61 (08) 8125 2200
Matthew Plunkett
[email protected]
0434 147 988
protectedcropping.net.au