A survey aims to gather opinions, transforming data into information, information into insight, and insight into action.
GrainGrowers has commenced its Annual Policy Survey, encouraging growers across Australia to have their say on issues impacting their farms.
The survey results will assist GrainGrowers in identifying the key issues facing growers and prioritising the challenges and opportunities for the year ahead.
In addition to seeking feedback on policy issues, the survey includes some new questions around biotechnology uptake, natural capital on farm and the extent to which respondents are planning ahead for issues that may impact them in the future.
GrainGrowers CEO Shona Gawel said the survey represented an important opportunity for growers to raise issues that impact their day-to-day business operations.
"Last year, 663 growers participated in the survey, providing a wealth of useful information. From a data viewpoint, the breadth of participation provided statistically significant results, allowing us to draw accurate, industry-wide conclusions."
"In 2024, the survey identified the top three priority areas as farm inputs, markets and pricing and labour. The feedback and insights provide a sharp focus to our policy and advocacy efforts, undertaken on behalf of our members and the wider industry."
Ms Gawel said information from the 2024 survey unpinned industry advocacy and communication efforts.
“The insights gained through the survey were used in 23 industry submissions and over 80 parliamentary briefings, representing the views of our members to parliamentary, departmental and other key decision makers.”
“Following the 2024 survey, GrainGrowers launched a series of reports exploring the future of farm inputs – fertilisers, chemicals, fuel and seeds - designed to inform growers and equip decision makers with the facts and possibilities for future development.”
“Having accurate and detailed grower-sourced information adds real value to how the interests of growers are put forward at a national level.”
Ms Gawel encouraged growers to put aside time, get involved and make their opinions known.
"Our policy and advocacy efforts reflect the needs of growers, and the survey ensures that we can showcase the severity of the issues occurring on-farm directly to government."
"While we communicate regularly with growers and receive regular input from elected members of the National Policy Group, the survey is another opportunity for growers to communicate with us directly."
The survey, conducted through an independent research firm, comprises a range of multiple-choice and open-text questions. It asks growers for information about the issues that affect them, and the policies required to help drive the industry's future development in a profitable and sustainable manner.
The survey can be accessed via the GrainGrowers website and closes at 11:59pm on Monday, 3 March 2025. As an incentive to participate, all responses received by this date will be entered into a draw for the chance to win one of four $500 Mastercard gift cards.
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