Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie has extended the RDC discussion paper submission deadline.

MORE time has been given for new ideas to come forward on modernising Australia’s agricultural research and development corporation structure.

Consultation on the ‘Modernising the Research and Development Corporation system’ discussion paper had been due to close on 4 November this year, but has been extended until 25 November.

Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie’s officer said the extension would give stakeholders more time to put forward imaginative and innovative ideas to drive future success in Australian agriculture.

A Department of Agriculture spokesperson said there has been strong interest in the discussion paper, and a significant number of individuals and organisations requested more time to prepare a response.

The spokesperson said 19 submissions have been received and all submissions will be provided to an advisory panel to be appointed by the Ms McKenzie. Each individual and organisation has the option of making a confidential submission.

Ms McKenzie said the discussion paper was calling for ideas to modernise Australia’s Research and Development Corporations (RDCs) to support the next wave of innovation for Australian farmers.

“Australian agriculture is an international success story and the Morrison McCormack Government is working to ensure farmers can build on that success.

“Our farmers feed and clothe our nation and send safe, high-quality, sustainable products to markets around the globe,” she said.

“Farming underpins profitable farming families, strong rural and regional communities and contributes to our national economy.

“That’s why our Government is committed to realising a $100 billion industry by 2030,” Ms McKenzie said.

“Agriculture in the 21st century will be science-led, employ more cutting-edge technology and need highly skilled workers.

“If we’re to position agriculture as an agile, industry of choice for the 21st century we need to see what improvements we can make that will help us get there,” she said.

“This is an opportunity for those who have a stake in the system to be involved so we can make sure our agriculture sector is operating as effectively and efficiently as it can.

“This discussion paper is about modernising our agricultural research and development to ensure the RDC system is delivering value for our levy and tax payers into the future.”

The Modernising the Research and Development Corporation system discussion paper is available for comment until 25 November, 2019. Go to haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/modernising-rdc

Click here to read the discussion paper.