About Australian Tropical Expertise

Businesses and research organisations in northern Queensland have developed specialist skills and knowledge to adapt to the environmental challenges presented by the tropics. This body of skills and knowledge is called Tropical Expertise.

The Tropical Expertise sector is defined as...

Businesses utilising or delivering research, innovation, science, knowledge/skills and practices, which are particular to tropical products, production, outputs or services

The developed world comprises of only a small part of the tropics, creating an opportunity for Australia to export its professional services from northern Australia to our neighbouring tropical countries.

Tropical Expertise can be seen in:

  • The construction of roads and highways to mitigate flooding during the monsoon season
  • Clinical practices to prevent bacterial infections in humid conditions
  • Wine produced from tropical fruits
  • Training Micronesian countries in sustainable, eco-friendly tourism practices

What can be achieved through the Tropical Expertise sector?

  • New markets for existing products and services
  • New products, materials, systems and processes that can be commercialised
  • Knowledge and expertise that can be transmitted through delivery of education and training
  • Consultancy services
  • Contract or joint venture research

The Qld Chief Scientist (Tropical Smart State, August 2005) conservatively estimated a potential $US80 billion in revenue by 2025 through Queensland’s knowledge intensive industries work in tropical economies.

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