GPA SEEKS GROWER FEEDBACK ON AUTONOMOUS MACHINERY

By Jessica Dempster

Grain Producers Australia is calling on growers to take part in a national survey tracking the adoption of autonomous farm machinery, as affordability concerns continue to increase alongside interest in the technology.

The annual survey, conducted in partnership with the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia and the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia, is now in its third year.

Previous findings show the proportion of respondents using semi-autonomous machinery, including GPS guidance and autosteer, increased from 27 to 45%. However, the proportion identifying affordability as a barrier also climbed, reaching 68%, up from 52%.

GPA research, development and extension spokesperson Andrew Weidemann says growers can see the potential of autonomous machinery, but technology needs to operate reliably in Australian farming conditions and remain financially viable.

The survey is open to all broadacre growers, regardless of their experience with the technology, until November 30, with more information and the survey link available at grainproducers.com.au.