THE WEEKLY TIMES | Calls to cut grains levy on hold despite reserves nearing one billion dollars

Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins has reinforced the need for a business case from both grains representative organisations to support a call for reducing the grains levy.

This confirmation comes after Grain Producers Australia conducted a poll of levy-paying grain producers in late 2025 which showed a majority of producers would like to see a reduction in the research, development and extension component of the compulsory levies.

The Weekly Times reported on the Minister's comments at the EvokeAg conference in Melbourne this week.

GPA chairman Barry Large said GRDC reserves were forecast to grow by a further $50m to $70m this financial year, pushing the balance beyond $1bn despite increased research spending.

Victorian Farmers Federation grains group president and Wimmera farmer Ryan Milgate said there needed to be a levy system that allowed for flexibility.

“There are some broad or general concerns about having such a high reserve. If the performance level is not up to scratch and you have high reserves, that is a problem,” he said.

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