The United Nations General Assembly voted unanimously to designate 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.  The Government of Mongolia led the way presenting the proposal to the UN and 67 other governments formally joined with Mongolia to co-sponsor this resolution.  The Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud formally supported the initiative.

Many people in Australia have worked on this initiative, with momentum growing over the past couple of years.  We now have a Regional IYRP Group for Australasia, who will work together with the Australian Rangeland Society members and others to bring us an exciting program. We hope that research projects and other activities can be initiated now, to culminate in activities during 2026.

Importantly, the IYRP has led to the largest ever collaboration of world-wide rangeland organisations and pastoral groups.   This network of groups will continue to work together to develop an exciting program of events leading up to and including the IYRP. Collaborations and networks can achieve amazing things.

Further information is available in the 2026 International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists Press Release and from the IYRP website.    Additional details about how the IYRP will benefit Australia can be found in the attached document.