Growers Lead the Way in New Farm Automation Survey

Australian grain growers are being asked to help shape the future of on-farm automation, with Grain Producers Australia launching its 2025 Autonomous Farm Machinery Survey.

The national survey aims to ensure that farmers lead the conversation on automation, helping to guide policy, safety standards, and investment priorities across the grains sector.

GPA Research, Development and Extension Spokesperson Andrew Weidemann said the survey ensures farmers’ voices remain at the centre of technological change.

“Autonomous platforms won’t replace good farmers — they should help us do more with the hours and labour we have, improve safety and lift precision,” Mr Weidemann said.

The survey builds on GPA’s Code of Practice for Agricultural Mobile Field Machinery, which supports practical and grower-led adoption of automation technologies suited to Australian conditions.

Society of Precision Agriculture Australia Executive Officer Angelique McAvoy said growers’ experiences are vital to guiding industry development.

“Members tell us autonomy becomes valuable when it plugs into existing precision systems, data flows and workflows,” Ms McAvoy said.

The five-minute survey, open until November 28, will inform an industry report shared with policymakers, manufacturers, and grower groups to ensure Australia’s automation future remains in farmers’ hands.