GRAIN CENTRAL | GPA survey response shows 75pc want cut in R&D levy

A national consultation of grain producers has captured a strong opinion from participants who want a reduction in the research and development component of their levies.

This consultation, led by Grain Producers Australia in response to increasing reserves in the R&D levy component, was run by independent company Australian Regional Insights during September and October.

Grain Central highlighted that the results of the survey would be presented to the Federal Agriculture and Assistant Minister.

GPA Research Development and Extension spokesperson Andrew Weidemann said the majority of growers supporting the proposal was a clear indication that action was needed.

“The levies system was designed to be flexible but, unlike some other commodities, grains does not have a formally legislated voting process for growers to have a say at regular intervals," he said.

“GPA started this levy review process in mid-2022 review with the knowledge that levy rates had not changed since 2008, but our industry and its profitability has changed significantly since then.”

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