The Department of Agriculture is responsible for:

1. direction & implementation of policy,
2. legislation,
3. conservation, management and sustainable utilization of natural resources and
4. provision of professional advice on natural resources.

The Department of Agriculture provides services in the areas of agriculture (crop and livestock), fisheries, policy, and legislation and compliance.  These include agricultural and fisheries awareness and promotion; production and marketing support services; technology transfer; pest management; environmental management (e.g. soil conservation of farmlands); management of agricultural and fisheries development programmes; policy advice; compliance checks; and legislative reviews. The Department maintains vital linkages with related agencies and organisations at the national, regional and international levels, including national producer organisations and NGOs.