Teff (Eragrostis tef [Zucc.] Trotter) is a native cereal crop widely grown in Ethiopia as the main grain for local consumption. With the increasing challenge by climate change, there is a need for alternative cereal crops in Australia. However, despite its early introduction in the 1800's, there is limited information on teff production in the country. The purpose of this study was to evaluate 20 teff lines using the seed supplied by The Australian Tropical Germplasm Centre at Biloela Research Station (Queensland). A replicated glass house pot trial was carried out to test performance of agronomic traits related to yield. The teff lines were propagated in the glasshouse and data was collected over one growing season and analysed for days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, peduncle length, internode length, leaf width and number of tillers. In addition, plant biomass, grain yield and 100 seed weight were determined. Results of this study displayed variability in teff traits demonstrating the potential for a future breeding program. Lines that exhibited promising outcomes were identified for further screening under field conditions. Teff lines 302136, 302135, 302131, 302126, 302127 and 302129 demonstrated higher performance in grain yield, tillering, panicle length and vegetative biomass signalling increased opportunity for better yield. Higher grain yield was associated with medium and late maturing lines. Regression analysis showed that vegetative biomass was positively correlated with higher grain yield. Further field evaluation and improvement of teff is required before the crop can be considered as an alternative for growers and provide a source of gluten free product for people with coeliac disease
