Hummock grasslands dominated by spinifex (Triodia species) play a vital role in Australia’s landscapes, providing ground cover for around 25% of the continent. These grassland communities, with a diverse range of plant species, have long been managed by Traditional Owners. They are an important resource for many pastoral operations and provide critical habitat for native fauna.
In recognising the importance of spinifex on pastoral leases across northern Australia. The KPCA led a collaborative which commissioned two reports to capture current knowledge and highlight knowledge gaps around spinifex pastures. Insights into spinifex (Triodia species) pastures and their management by Matthew Fletcher (Range Assist) collates information and knowledge about spinifex pastures captured through interviews with experienced stakeholders. Spinifex Pastures Characteristics and Management by Bruce Alchin (Bruce Alchin and Associates) is a summary of publications and resources for land managers, pastoralists, extension officers and researchers. A series of informative fact sheets were produced from these reports.
Reports:
Insights into spinifex (Triodia species) pastures and their management
- Fletcher M (2024). Insights into spinifex (Triodia species) pastures and their management – Information and knowledge about spinifex pastures captured through interviews with experienced stakeholders
Spinifex Pastures – Characteristics and Management
- Alchin B (2025). Spinifex Pastures – Characteristics and Management. A summary of publications and resources for land managers, pastoralists, extension officers, and researchers
Fact Sheets:
Cool Fires, Hot Fires & Spinifex
Burning Spinifex to Influence Pasture Quality & Composition
This collaborative project led by the Kimberley Pilbara Cattlemen’s Association. It was jointly funded by the Northern Hub, through funding from Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA. It was supported by the Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.