Autonomous farm robots designed and built in regional Queensland are getting a $7 million boost from the CEFC, to help make farming more sustainable and slash agricultural emissions across Australia.

The CEFC investment in SwarmFarm Robotics (SwarmFarm) is part of a Series B capital raise that will accelerate the rollout of lightweight, self-driving “SwarmBots” – precision robots that reduce herbicide use by up to 95 per cent and cut fuel related emissions by 35 per cent.

The CEFC commitment, made from the Powering Australia Technology Fund (PATF), will support SwarmFarm’s continued growth as it scales up the production of autonomous robots to assist with agriculture and horticulture applications.

Australian designed and manufactured, the autonomous robot technology enables precision weed control spraying and supports “no till” agriculture – a method that avoids disturbing the soil (by tilling or ploughing) to preserve its structure and moisture, further reducing the environmental footprint of farming operations.

The raise was led by European agritech investors Edaphon and is supported by existing investors QIC, Emmertech, Tenacious Ventures and Artesian Capital.

CEFC Head of Growth Capital, Malcolm Thornton said: “We’re backing the next generation of Australian made agricultural technology that gives farmers a smarter, cleaner way to manage their land. SwarmFarm’s platform transforms how food is grown, using less fuel, fewer chemicals, and minimal soil disruption.

“SwarmFarm’s technology represents an important step forward that gives farmers new tools and practices to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture.

“The robots have proved successful in reducing herbicide costs and equipment outlay, while reducing overall emissions associated with traditional farming practice.

“SwarmFarm’s innovation offers a commercially viable, scalable solution – and that’s exactly what the Powering Australia Technology Fund was built to support. We’re supporting a company with a strong track record that’s now poised for its next stage of growth.

SwarmFarm CEO Andrew Bate said: “This investment from the CEFC will accelerate our mission to transform agriculture through robotics.

“Our SwarmBots are designed to be versatile platforms that can integrate a range of attachments from different partners, from precision sprayers to mowers, giving farmers the flexibility to adapt the technology to suit their needs. They’ve already been deployed in some of Australia’s most challenging environments, and this is just the beginning, we’re creating new farming systems from the soil up. By putting smart technology in the hands of growers and providing more flexibility in addressing potential labor shortages in agriculture, we’re helping to reshape the future of growing systems.”

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