October 29, 2026
The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (DPI) are seeking applications from suitably qualified organisations to licence several Australian peanut varieties, three of which have previously been released to growers.
The licence covers the Plant Breeder’s Rights (PBR) in five varieties developed as part of the Australian Peanut Breeding Program, a joint program between the former Peanut Company of Australia, the GRDC and DPI.
The breeding program trialled and developed locally adapted peanut genetics for Australian systems, but stalled when PCA quit the industry.
The GRDC and DPI are now seeking a commercial partner to ensure the continued availability and effective commercialisation of the five varieties.
The successful tenderer will be responsible for producing, maintaining, marketing and distributing high-quality seed of the licensed varieties.
This will include maintaining varietal identity and genetic purity, operating an appropriate pure seed system, managing seed quality and traceability, maintaining adequate seed stocks, and providing growers with reliable access to seed, varietal information and technical support.
A GRDC spokesperson said the proposals must not include, or contemplate, germplasm licensing for breeding, or any other purpose, and must not request either GRDC or QDPI investment.
The peanut varieties in question are:
- D281-p40-236A – Kairi (released variety)
- D3404-17-p148-12 – Alloway (released variety)
- P135-76 – Ellesmere (to be released)
- P85-p112-151 – Walkamin (released variety)
- P153-48 – Cruickshank (to be released) for commercialisation in Australia
Applications opened on Thursday, October 29 and must be received by 5:00pm (AEDT) on Wednesday, December 9, 2026.
- More information is available on the GRDC website
