Email this page
Print this pageGRDC Investment Process
Identify and prioritise customer’s R&D requirements
GRDC’s major stakeholders are Australian grain growers and the Australian Government. GRDC has clearly defined processes for the identifying the priorities of grain growers. Panels which have grain grower representation visits different regions consulting with the local grain growers and research advisory and link groups also meet with panels and management to identify priorities. The Australian Government requirements are based on the National and Rural Research priorities. Discussions are held between GRDC management and the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry throughout the year to determine how best GRDC can meet these requirements.
Design, procure and contract required R&D
Procurement occurs through a tendering and contracting process as well as through joint ventures and alliances. Procurement is governed by the Australian Government Procurement Guidelines.
Manage the R&D portfolio through pathway to market.
Clearly defined processes guide management at the project, program and whole of portfolio level. This includes project monitoring by way of progress reports, milestone reports, program reviews, and strategic reviews in respect to critical areas of investment. All projects are required to submit a final report on completion. Joint ventures have specific reporting requirements. Portfolio analysis is periodically undertaken to ensure a balanced portfolio of investments.
Deliver outcomes of R&D in products and services
GRDC delivers outputs of R&D through the pathways – communication and extension, capacity building, and commercialisation. Communication and extension involves the development of information products and services, including publications, update events, and group-based learning. Capacity building includes training and development of researchers, grain growers and farm advisors. Commercialisation involves contracting with commercial partners to deliver products and services for an agreed fee.
Evaluate the impact of R&D and report to stakeholders
There are two primary mechanisms by which the GRDC evaluates the impact of R&D. These are:
• An annual survey of grain growers on issues including changes in farm practice, new grain variety adoption, and impact or R&D on profitability and sustainability
• An impact assessment of specific R&D projects including economic and financial analyses.
GRDC formally reports to stakeholders through the annual report, growers report and stakeholder report (refer 'About Us' for more information).
