Fields of the Future: The Power of AgTech in Australian Agriculture

For Keerah Steele, agriculture has always been more than a job, it is a way of life. Grounded in her love for rural Australia, Keerah’s work is centred on helping producers find practical, lasting ways to use technology on the land.

As an AgTech Advisor at Farmers2Founders, she supports producers through the F2F TEKFARM project, helping them identify, test and adopt tools that genuinely make a difference. From bird-scaring lasers and Remote weighing systems to water monitoring tools and drones. More than 180 different technologies have already been rolled out across Australia, each one tested where it matters most: in the paddock.“Technology shouldn’t be another thing producers have to battle with,” Keerah says. “It should make life easier, safer, and give them time back.”

Trust Before Technology

One of the biggest barriers to adoption, Keerah explains, isn’t the technology itself but trust. “We’ve had incredible tools developed over the years, but too often they’ve been built for the wrong environment. When a farmer invests and it doesn’t work as promised, that trust is broken.”

Her role is about building that bridge. Every trial through TEKFARM creates a feedback loop where producers can share what’s working and what’s not, and developers can adapt their products to suit on-farm realities.“The success of this work comes from relationships,” she says. “It’s about understanding the producer first, knowing what’s really going on in their business and supporting them on their journey in a way that fits.”

Stories from the Paddock

Keerah often says the best proof of innovation lies in the results you can see on the ground.

She recalls a Bowen cattle producer who purchased a drone to help with rotational grazing. What began as a practical purchase soon transformed the way they worked. The drone reduced muster times, gave the producer more flexibility and time with family and revealed unexpected benefits along the way.“They started spotting feral pigs and dogs from the air,” Keerah recalls. “It meant better pest management and fewer calf losses. That’s the ripple effect of good tech. It solves one problem and ends up helping ten others.”For Keerah, that’s what technology is all about: tools that support people, not replace them. From water sensors that save an entire day’s drive to camera systems that improve animal welfare, technology is reshaping how producers manage their operations and care for their land.

The Data Advantage

Of all the changes underway in agriculture, Keerah believes the most transformative lies in data.

“Data is the new oil,” she says. “When producers have access to clear, accurate data, it takes the guesswork out of decision-making. Whether it’s grazing rotations, water management, or understanding how their country is performing.” Connectivity has accelerated that shift. With new connectivity options now delivering reliable coverage across remote regions, producers can upload data, take calls and monitor operations in real time.“Connectivity has completely changed what’s possible,” Keerah explains. “It’s allowing more women to stay in agriculture, to balance family and work, and to be part of shaping the next era.”This evolution is not only improving business performance but also opening new pathways for rural women to pursue careers in data, technology and entrepreneurship; all while staying connected to the family, the land and communities they love.

Innovation, Australian Style

Australia, Keerah believes, is uniquely placed to lead in AgTech. The country’s diverse conditions and producer-driven approach make it an ideal testing ground for new ideas.“We’re seeing remarkable progress,” she says. “From artificial intelligence (AI) that can track pasture growth and weed spread to automation that monitors livestock remotely. AI won’t replace the human element, but it will enhance it; helping people make faster, better decisions". Keerah’s outlook is both pragmatic and hopeful. “At the end of the day, it’s about giving people the confidence to use technology in ways that support their business, their families and their land. That’s the future I want to be part of.”

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Keerah’s work captures the spirit of what’s next for Australian agriculture; connection, collaboration and innovation that grows from the ground up.

If you would like to hear more from Keerah join us for our next TEKWOMEN Virtual Lunch & Learn event, Building for the Future: Founders, Farmers and the AgTech Frontier, on Thursday 27 November from 12.30 to 1.30pm AEST. Where she’ll share stories on what’s driving change in the sector, from data and connectivity to the rise of AI and automation.

You can register your spot > > here < <