GFDI Remains Unchanged for 2025–26 Harvest

The way South Australian grain producers measure harvest fire safety in the paddock will remain unchanged going into the 2025–26 grain harvest, following confirmation from the Minister for Emergency Services.

Thanks to ongoing advocacy from Grain Producers South Australia, growers will continue using the Grassland Fire Danger Index, or GFDI, of 35 measured at two metres under the Grain Harvesting Code of Practice.

The agreement with the Minister and the Country Fire Service means the existing Code, which has operated successfully for more than a decade, will continue to guide safe harvesting activities across the state.

GPSA Chief Executive Officer Brad Perry said the consistency of the current system gives producers confidence to plan and manage their harvest safely.

“The Grain Harvesting Code of Practice and GFDI have proven to be an effective, practical and well-understood framework for managing fire risk during harvest,” Mr Perry said.

“Grain producers can continue to operate with clarity when harvesting, helping ensure community and on-farm safety.”

Mr Perry said GPSA continues to advocate for the GFDI threshold to be measured at two metres above ground level, with a reading of 35 remaining the key indicator for when harvesting should stop.

He said the decision reflects the strong collaboration between the grain industry, the CFS and the South Australian Government, allowing growers to continue using a proven system that protects lives, livelihoods and rural communities.