An artist’s impression of the soon to be constructed Agri Tech Precinct at Western Sydney University.

Students of Western Sydney University (WSU) will soon be able to enrol in agricultural courses, grow crops as part of their studies, and see the food produced sold for export.

The university has secured a $16.7 million federal government grant to develop an Agri Tech Precinct at its Hawkesbury campus, with construction slated to begin in April 2025.

The precinct is a $30 million partnership between the university and government and will cover 50 hectares. The Albanese government said the funding contribution fulfils an election promise under the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, with 150 jobs expected during the construction phase and up to 240 additional roles created once the precinct is operational.

WSU currently has a sustainable Barramundi fish producer located on campus, as well as aquaponics and farming of aquatic organisms.

Stage one of the project is expected to open to students by late 2025, with stage two to follow.