GROWERS URGED TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON LEVY REVIEW

Grain Producers Australia (GPA) is urging all growers to participate in a historic consultation that gives them the chance to directly vote on grain levy rates for the first time since the system was introduced nearly 40 years ago. 

All grain producers in Australia pay compulsory levies on wheat, coarse grains, oilseeds and grain legumes.

The levy is payable by the person who owns the grain immediately after harvest, and helps fund critical national priorities including research and development, biosecurity and industry services. 

GPA Chair Barry Large said the consultation marks a turning point for growers, giving them direct input into how their own money is managed and invested. 

“This is your levy, your money, and your chance to have a direct say in how the system works,” Mr Large said. 

“Levy rates haven’t changed since 2008, yet the system has built up record reserves. The research and development component alone is now sitting at $730 million, with more record production and levy collections forecast this year. That means we have a rare opportunity to take a proactive look at the system and make changes that benefit growers.” 

GPA initiated the review by asking a fundamental question: are grain levy rates fit-for-purpose?

Independent research and economic modelling were commissioned to analyse the current system, leading to recommendations that ensure the levy delivers greater value and fairness.

The findings show the levy system can continue to maintain strong investment in research and development, while also boosting capacity to strengthen biosecurity protections – a key priority for growers facing rising threats from pests and diseases. 

“The recent detection of Khapra beetle in imported products at a major retailer was another reminder of why we must do more to protect our industry,” Mr Large said. 

“Making levy settings more responsive to today’s risks and opportunities will help safeguard farm productivity, the environment and the $26.5 billion grains industry.” 

The consultation is being conducted through a national online poll, independently managed by Australian Regional Insights.

The poll opens Monday 29 September and runs for three weeks.

It is short, taking 3–5 minutes to complete, with results analysed and reported in a non-identifiable, aggregated format. Growers can also provide additional feedback to help inform future considerations.

GPA is running an extensive campaign to ensure the process is widely accessible.

This includes online meetings, rural media advertising, and sharing resources via www.grainproducers.com.au, where growers can access the poll and supporting information. 

Mr Large said it was vital for as many growers as possible to take part. 

“It’s not compulsory to vote, but we want all growers to have their say. The more people who participate, the stronger the consultation outcomes will be,” he said. 

“The levy system was always designed to be flexible – to adjust as circumstances change, just like farm incomes fluctuate with the seasons. This review honours that design and makes sure growers are the ones steering the future.” 

GPA is also encouraging growers to share the information with others in their community to help lift participation levels. 

“This process is about fairness and accountability. Growers fund these levies, so growers should shape how they are used,” Mr Large said. 

“By participating, you are helping build a stronger and more sustainable grains industry for the future.” 

Growers can access the poll, consultation resources and online meeting schedule at www.grainproducers.com.au. 

ENDS 

Further Information: 

GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023 

GPA Executive Officer Communications Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193