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Field Crops Research and Development Corporations
Thirteen rural-industry based Research and Development Corporations (RDCs) operate within the Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry portfolio. They are generally funded by industry R&D levies with matching contributions from the Commonwealth (up to a maximum of 0.5% of the industry's gross value of production).
There are three field crops industries that have established RDCs - cotton, grain and sugar.
Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC)The CRDC invests in research, development and technology transfer to advance the sustainability, profitability and competitiveness of the domestic cotton industry. In 2003-04, the CRDC has a total budget of approximately $11.2 million and more than 135 projects under management, supported by a grower levy currently set at $2.25 per 227 kg bale of lint.
Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC)
The GRDC is a national organisation, grower and government supported, with a mandate to plan and invest in research and development for the Australian grains industry. Its vision is for a profitable, internationally competitive and ecologically sustainable Australian grains industry. Total expenditure in 2000-01 was $115.7 million. Funding is provided through a levy on graingrowers. This is determined each year by the grains industry's peak body, the Grains Council of Australia (GCA). The Commonwealth Government matches this funding, up to an agreed ceiling. Total research expenditure in 2002-03 was $101 million.
The SRDC is a statutory authority with a mission to foster an internationally competitive and sustainable Australian sugar industry. The SRDC directs funding to meet the research and development needs of the sugar industry. The 2001-02 research and development program involves funding of $12.16 million.
Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC)The RIRDC is a statutory Corporation formed in July 1990. It was set up by the Commonwealth Government to work closely with Australian rural industries on the organisation and funding of their R&D needs.
In addition, rice research projects are handled within the RIRDC.
For further detail contact Field Crops Branch