The rice industry’s RD&E program drives innovation in genetics, water efficiency, agronomy and digital extension. The current plan sets a target of 1.5ML per tonne by 2030, with significant investment in breeding through Rice Breeding Australia and digital agronomy tools.

The RGA advocates for:

• Increased research into rice within mixed summer cropping systems.

• Transparency around GRDC investments in the Murray and Murrumbidgee.

• Increasing the PHA levy contribution in line with the R&D levy.

• Collaborative, industry‑wide investment in transformational RD&E.

Water is the cornerstone of rice production. The RGA supports adoption of best practice in irrigation layout, ponding systems, storage infrastructure, and crop management.

Priorities include:

• Improved grower capability in water budgeting and market knowledge

• Better scenario planning and risk management

• Increased reliability of general‑security water allocations in NSW

Reliable connectivity is essential for modern farming. The RGA is an active member of the Rural, Regional and Remote Communications Coalition, pushing for:

• Affordable, reliable voice and data services

• Expansion of mobile coverage

• Digital skills development across rural communities

• Full implementation of Regional Telecommunications Review recommendations

The RGA works with RMS, NHVR and councils to ensure growers have safe, fair and efficient access to road networks.

Focus areas include:

• Agricultural vehicle access and permitting

• The NSW Grain Harvest Management Scheme (GHMS)

• Protecting fuel tax credits essential to farm operations

Safe, effective chemical access underpins productivity and biosecurity.

RGA policy supports:

• Timely APVMA approval processes

• Cross‑industry cooperation through the AgVet Collaborative Forum

• Best practice spray application, drift reduction and record keeping

• Strong biosecurity responses, including for rice pests and diseases

Policies support practical, community‑minded stubble management and measures that reduce chemical drift, protect air quality and minimise smoke impacts.

The RGA encourages practices that reduce on‑farm emissions, support carbon market participation, and build climate resilience through innovation and research.

Safety is non‑negotiable. The RGA promotes:

• WHS best practice

• Safe machinery use (including quad bikes)

• Workforce planning and access to labour

• Strong safety culture across all farming operations

Rice fields play an important role in biodiversity, supporting species such as the endangered Australasian Bittern. The RGA leads habitat research, restoration and incentives to support grower involvement.

The RGA is a proud Landcare NSW host organisation, supporting farmers with localised environmental and farm management programs across the Riverina.

The RGA only supports licensed hunting when non‑lethal deterrents are ineffective and all legislation is strictly followed.

The RGA supports the next generation through training opportunities, scholarships and leadership development (update wording as your program grows).

The RGA fosters strong industry leadership through:

• Grower capacity building

• Community engagement

• Industry history and culture

• Collaborative networks

With vesting arrangements ending after the C25 crop, the RGA is working closely with NSW DPI to ensure remaining RMB funds are reinvested into industry benefit, particularly R&D.

The RGA supports landholder choice while protecting the long‑term integrity of agricultural land, water access, neighbouring property rights and biodiversity.

(Section flagged for update — can be added when finalised.)