Grain Levy Review Awaits Ministerial Decision

A decision is pending on proposed changes to Australia’s grain levy, as industry reserves continue to climb.

Grain Producers Australia last year completed an independent grower survey, with the results now before Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins.

The survey found strong support for a moderate cut to research and development levies and a slight increase to biosecurity funding.

GPA Chair Barry Large says rising production has led to ballooning reserves within the Grains Research and Development Corporation.

Senate Estimates heard this week reserves are forecast to grow by another 50 to 70 million dollars this year, surpassing one billion.

Growers haven’t voted on levy components since 2008, and GPA says it’s now up to the Minister to respond.