Year in Review - Policy Wins and Future-Focus Mark Strong End to 2025 for GrainGrowers

GrainGrowers has closed out 2025 with several significant policy achievements for Australian grain producers, alongside continued advocacy on sustainability, infrastructure and long-term industry resilience.

Speaking with host Jessica Dempster on FlowFM’s Country Viewpoint, GrainGrowers representative Shona Gawel said the repeal of the proposed superannuation tax on unrealised capital gains was one of the most important outcomes for farming families this year.

The tax, which would have applied to superannuation balances above $3 million, raised serious concerns across agriculture due to its potential impact on family trusts, succession planning and intergenerational farm transfers.

“For farming families, the unintended consequences were significant,” Ms Gawel said. “Its repeal has brought enormous relief.”

Another long-awaited reform delivered in 2025 was right-to-repair legislation, allowing growers to use local mechanics to service and repair farm machinery rather than being restricted to authorised dealerships. Ms Gawel said the change would reduce costly downtime during critical periods such as harvest and seeding.

“This will make a real difference on-farm,” she said.

GrainGrowers also made progress advocating for the development of a domestic low-carbon liquid fuel industry, particularly for oilseeds such as canola. About 75 per cent of Australia’s canola exports are currently sent to the European Union. The Federal Government’s $1.18 billion investment in low-carbon fuels was welcomed, with Ms Gawel highlighting benefits including improved fuel security, new regional jobs and stronger domestic markets.

Closer to home, the organisation celebrated the success of South Australian grower Hannah Debnett, who completed GrainGrowers’ OnBoard governance program and was appointed company secretary of the Grains and Legumes Council.

Looking ahead to the new year, Ms Gawel said the release of the Grain Sustainability Framework report would be a major milestone, alongside continued advocacy for improved freight routes and greater consultation with growers on research and development priorities.

She also acknowledged challenging seasonal conditions across parts of South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales, praising the resilience of the grain-growing community.