General News
12 May, 2026
Farmers invited to shape future programs
Wimmera farmers are invited to participate in Australia’s longest-running national research survey of its kind to help inform future programs and advocacy.
Associate Professor Hanabeth Luke of Murdoch University is leading the sixth Wimmera Rural Landholder Survey for Wimmera CMA.
Previous surveys were conducted in 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017, and 2023.
The university distributed 2000 surveys to selected Wimmera landholders to gather information on their needs, challenges, and priorities.
The research is part of the national Soil Cooperative Research Centre Rural Landholder Social Benchmarking Study.
Wimmera CMA acting chief executive Luke Austin said the survey results provide valuable insights that help target investment and deliver support aligned with landholder goals.
“Information from the survey complements the guidance and feedback we receive through our everyday work with landholders,” he said.
“It also helps strengthen the partnerships we have with the farming sector.”
Mr Austin noted that while survey comparisons are possible, the CMA’s primary focus wascurrent issues.
“We continue to periodically implement this survey so we have up-to-date information that reflects the current needs, issues and challenges facing our farming community,” the acting CEO said.
“We look forward to gaining a better understanding of priorities for Wimmera farmers and how best we can support them.”
Mr Austin added that while the survey was mailed in paper form, it is also available online.
“It is a busy time of year for farmers who are on their tractors for cropping, so if they would prefer to complete the survey on their phones or iPads that option is available,” he said.
A/Prof Luke said the confidential survey covers topics such as soil management, farm practices, long-term property plans, and preferred information sources. It takes about 30 minutes to complete.
“We also aim to uncover new farming trends and changes that have occurred since the previous Soil CRC survey in 2023, and similar surveys conducted over the past 12 years,” she said.