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the australian farmer
“As well as the Code, a four- year Stage 2 plan has also been developed which provides a base level framework for com- panies, as well as a govern- ment-endorsed program for induction, training and use of automation on-farm. “The Code partners are cur- rently implementing this phase of the project, to provide re-
sources, training and support for broader-scale adoption across industry. We’ll continue to progress this important pro- ject, as this technology will be here in full swing before we know it.” The Code was finalised and presented to the WA Govern- ment in mid-2021. GPA Chief Executive Colin
Bettles said the WA Government was still considering GPA’s re- quest to endorse the Code, as broader work to harmonise other codes continued. “We remain hopeful the WA Government recognises the need to adopt this Code and the capacity for this technology to help solve problems many farm- ers in WA have faced over recent years, with significant challen- ges such as access to labour and farm safety,” he said. “As we await the WA Gov- ernment’s next move, GPA and our project partners have also agreed to approach other State Governments, which currently includes the Queensland Gov- ernment, to increase engage- ment and adoption of the Code. “This is also critical, given the looming commercialisation of autonomous tractors, antici- pated in late 2023 or early 2024. “GPA will continue working collaboratively to achieve these outcomes, with our grower mem- bers – including WAFarmers, the WA Grains Group and AgForce Queensland who we’ve made joint approaches with to their respective state governments. We welcome any feedback and engagement to work in partner- ship with other stakeholders in the Australian grains industry, to support the best outcomes and benefits for growers.” This article is by Grain Produ- cers Australia and was originally published on their website
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