This review is part of the standard procedures of the Land & Water Resources Research and Development Corporation (LWRRDC) to ensure that Research and Development (R&D) programs are accountable and responsive to the needs of investors, providers and users. The National Climate Variability R&D Program (NCVP) has been operational for five years, through two lots of three year phases, which al lows an effective assessment of its achievements. In addition, the review is timely in that it can contribute to the planning of a possible third phase of the program.