Australian growers are steadily lifting the standard of on-farm grain storage. In the past 15 years, average capacity has almost tripled – from about 850 tonnes in 2009 to more than 2450 tonnes in 2024. This growth reflects the importance of storage as part of the farming business model: capturing market premiums, smoothing harvest logistics, and safeguarding grain quality.
At the same time, the quality of storage is improving. The proportion of gas-tight, sealable silos has risen from 31% in 2014 to almost 50% today, while unsealed silos have fallen from 37% to 17%. This shift supports more reliable fumigation and reduces the risk of insect resistance, helping protect both grower returns and market access.
Yet, challenges remain. About 13% of growers still fumigate without sealable silos, and 28% continue to use phosphine in unsafe or off-label ways. Encouragingly, the proportion of growers using pressure-tested, gas-tight fumigation has climbed from 34% to 58%, showing that best practice is becoming more widely adopted.
Insights from Chris Warrick
Stored Grain Extension Project Leader Chris Warrick says the numbers show clear progress but also highlight the need for continued improvement.
“It’s positive to see more growers investing in sealed silos and pressure testing, but unsafe fumigation is still too common. Even one off-label treatment can contribute to phosphine resistance, which threatens the entire industry.”
Chris emphasises that correct storage infrastructure and practices are non-negotiable for protecting market access and reducing costs from chemical resistance.
He also notes that while many growers now pressure test silos at least once, routine testing before every fumigation is the only way to ensure an effective, label-compliant treatment.
Support for Growers
To back this industry shift, GRDC has released a new Phosphine Best Management Practices guide, providing step-by-step advice for safe fumigation. GRDC is also considering options for certified training programs in fumigation licensing, grain classification, and safety – depending on grower demand identified in recent surveys.
With better infrastructure, safer fumigation, and strong extension support, the industry is edging closer to making correct storage the norm, not the exception.
For practical resources, visit the Stored Grain Information Hub, call the 1800 WEEVIL hotline, or email info@storedgrain.com.au.