We are a global leader in grains industry research, development and extension (RD&E). Each year we plan, invest in, manage and promote hundreds of world-class projects.

Our focus is on driving discoveries and innovations that will create enduring profitability for Australian grain growers. Our rigorous investment processes and practices ensure the RD&E levy is one of the best investments a grain grower can make.

Our investments must:

• deliver the highest impact to underpin the profitability of Australian grain growers
• facilitate uptake of research outcomes
• provide the best return on investment
• align with the RD&E Plan 2023-28.

Investment Management Framework phases

Our Investment Management Framework (IMF) is our consistent approach to the management of investments. All investments progress through three phases of the IMF which operates in the broader context of ongoing engagement with our key stakeholders. Each phase is explained below.

Design

Drawing on internal and external expertise, we analyse the investment opportunity to assess and identify the investments that will deliver the greatest impact to growers.

Procure

We identify, select and procure RD&E partners best able to deliver outputs and value for money for us and our stakeholders.

Manage

We actively manage both the contracts and the relationships with our RD&E partners, recognising the partnerships we build are integral to our long-term success.

Throughout the life of an investment we continuously monitor outputs and outcomes through a range of metrics. We evaluate the impact of investments on profitability of Australian grain growers and report the findings to our key stakeholders.

Evaluating the impact of the investment in research, development and extension is a core business process for the GRDC. We commission several independent impact assessments each year to examine economic, environmental, and social benefits of GRDC's investment in projects. GRDC uses these impact assessment studies to understand how effectively it is delivering desired outcomes to its key stakeholders.