The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has commenced an independent performance review. The review has been requested by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), consistent with GRDC's obligations under its Statutory Funding Agreement (SFA) 2025–2034.
Independent performance reviews are a standard part of how all Research and Development Corporations (RDCs) operate, conducted periodically to assess performance against five principles set out in each RDC's funding agreement:
- Stakeholder engagement: how GRDC identifies and responds to grower and industry priorities
- RD&E activities: whether GRDC's portfolio is strategic, targeted and delivering value
- Collaboration: cross-industry and cross-sectoral partnerships
- Governance: whether GRDC arrangements are fit for purpose and meet best practice
- Monitoring and evaluation: how well GRDC demonstrate outcomes for levy payers and the community.
GRDC previous review was completed in 2019. GRDC has appointed GHD Pty Ltd, an independent consultancy with extensive experience in RDC performance reviews, to conduct the review. Their findings will be reported simultaneously to GRDC and DAFF, with the final review report expected to be published on the GRDC website in late 2026, along with GRDC's response to the recommendations.
This is a genuine opportunity to demonstrate what GRDC is delivering for levy payers and identify where GRDC can do more. The findings of this review will demonstrate what GRDC is delivering for levy payers, identify where GRDC can do more, and ensure GRDC investment in grains research continues to deliver real value for Australian grain growers.
GRDC encourages growers and industry to have their say by providing feedback via the online consultation hub or by emailing the review team at moc.dhg@erutlucirga. Submissions close 30 June 2026.
Feedback unrelated to the Independent Performance Review can be submitted to GRDC by emailing ua.moc.cdrg@ecnanrevog You can still choose to remain anonymous.
For more information, please visit the GRDC website.