About the Advisory Panels

In partnership with AgriFutures Australia, Advisory Panels provide recommendations on the allocation of research, development and extension (RD&E) funding for AgriFutures levied industry programs.

The core function of AgriFutures Advisory Panels is to ensure that RD&E investment remains industry-demand driven, including:

  • Advising on industry requirements for investment through the development and monitoring of RD&E plans.
  • Providing recommendations to AgriFutures on suitable RD&E opportunities and activities to address industry issues.
  • Providing feedback and investment advice on RD&E proposals to ensure investment is aligned to priorities in RD&E plans.
  • Advising and assisting in the dissemination, adoption, and commercialisation of RD&E activities.
  • Program activities are funded by industry levy and Commonwealth funds, and any funds contributed from third parties.

Advisory Panel Recruitment

AgriFutures Australia is currently recruiting for the Rice Research Development & Extension (RD&E) Panel.

Are you eager to contribute to the future of the Australian rice industry? AgriFutures Australia is seeking dedicated individuals to join the Rice RD&E Panel. We are looking for five Panel Members to provide independent guidance and advice on the RD&E needs of the rice industry. As a member of the Rice RD&E Panel, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of rice RD&E. You will be actively involved in the development of the next Rice Program RD&E Plan, contributing your time, knowledge, and skills to benefit the rice industry.

Key responsibilities

  • Provide independent guidance and advice on RD&E needs.
  • Contribute to the development of the next Rice Program RD&E Plan.
  • Collaborate with other panel members to ensure the success of the rice industry.
  • Advise on new, developing, and established rice industry conditions or national rural issues and associated research, development, and extension needs.

Selection criteria

  • Industry or relevant experience and involvement – Direct experience in a relevant agricultural industry, or the research sector, with a solid understanding of crop production systems.
  • Leadership and governance skills – An understanding and appreciation of governance and leadership within the context of a Commonwealth entity.
  • Understanding of research priorities – Ability to provide strategic investment advice on research priorities in the rice industry and associated activities.
  • Contribution to the Rice RD&E Panel – Dedicate sufficient time to effectively fulfill the role, including attending meetings and reviewing relevant documents and interest in advancing the rice sector and contributing to its profitability and longevity.

Who should apply
We are seeking growers, agronomists, researchers, and independent candidate with a connection to the rice or other relevant agricultural industry. Ideal candidates will have experience in assessing research proposals and a passion for advancing the rice sector.

Application process
To apply, please complete the application form, skills matrix, and attach your CV (no longer than three pages) via the online application system.
Please ensure that you have read and understand the associated Terms of Reference and understand the importance of providing independent advice to AgriFutures.

To ensure that we can effectively manage potential conflicts of interest, it is recommended that Panel Members refrain from submitting research proposals or working on AgriFutures funded projects for the duration of their Panel appointment.

For more information on the desired skill set for the Rice RD&E Panel positions, please see the Rice RD&E Panel Member Selection criteria and self-assessment Skills Matrix.

Apply now
Join us in making a difference in the rice industry. Apply now and be part of this exciting opportunity!

Submissions open Thursday, 20 February 2025 at 5pm (AEDT) 
Submissions close Thursday, 20 March 2025 at 12pm (AEDT)

For any questions regarding the AgriFutures Rice Program RD&E Panel recruitment please contact:
Tich Pfumayaramba
Manager, Levied Industries

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a current advisory panel for my industry?

AgriFutures maintains Advisory Panels for the following industries:

  • Chicken Meat
  • Export Fodder
  • Ginger
  • Goat Fibre
  • Honey Bee & Pollination
  • Pasture Seeds
  • Tea Tree Oil
  • Thoroughbred Horses.

We also maintain the:

  • Emerging Industry Consultative Committee (EICC): The EICC provides strategic assistance and advice on matters including investment prioritisation, annual operational plans, governance and compliance, risk mitigation strategies and conflicts of interest.
  • Emerging Industry Technical Advisory Group (TAG): The TAG provides technical investment advice and recommendations on stakeholder project procurements, applications and outputs.

A full list of current advisory panels, including biographies for chairs and members, is available below.

View all current Advisory Panels

How are members of the Advisory Panels selected?

We aim to maintain geographical, age and gender diversity to ensure that the Advisory Panel appropriately represents the industry. Members are selected through an open call process, which includes a competitive skills-based assessment and consultations with key industry bodies and stakeholders. Applicants are also required to declare any actual or perceived conflict of interest prior to appointment. Successful applicants are appointed by the Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia.

How long is the term for Advisory Panel members?

The initial term of appointment is three years, with a maximum of two consecutive terms applicable to any member. However, members may be retained beyond two terms to ensure the availability of scarce expertise.

To maintain corporate knowledge, only up to half the membership of an Advisory Panel is changed at any one time.

Are Advisory Panel members compensated?

Advisory Panel members are recompensed for their services to AgriFutures Australia at rates determined by the Commonwealth’s Remuneration Tribunal. More information about panel remuneration can be found in the AgriFutures Industry Advisory Panel Terms of Reference, on our Corporate Governance page.

How do Advisory Panels operate?

You can find the Code of Conduct and Terms of Reference for AgriFutures Australia Advisory Panels on our on our Corporate Governance page. These documents provide an overview of how the Panels work.

Can I make an expression of interest for any future recruitment?

We recommend subscribing to your relevant Industry Updates mailing list, so you will be notified when panel recruitment begins for your industry.

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