INTRODUCTION

This information paper addresses the proposed strategy for the 2009-10 and subsequent ABS Agricultural Surveys and Censuses. This is the final in a series of three papers following a review of the ABS Agriculture Statistics Program.

The first paper, ABS Agriculture Statistics Strategy - 2008-09 and beyond (cat. no. 7105.0), published in November 2008 presented the ABS' understanding of the key agricultural policy issue imperatives and areas of priority for statistical data development. It also outlined proposed changes to the future ABS Agricultural Survey program, aimed at improving the statistical information base relevant to the priority areas.

The second release of ABS Agriculture Statistics Strategy - 2008-09 and beyond (cat. no. 7105.0) published on 2 February 2008 outlined the direction and content of the 2008-09 Agricultural Survey.

This final paper focuses on the proposed strategy for the 2009-10 Agricultural Survey, the 2010-11 Agricultural Census, and subsequent ABS Agricultural Surveys/Censuses.

The key purpose of this paper is to advise clients of the future agriculture collection strategy. The ABS is keen to ensure the agricultural statistical information supplied into the future is well placed to inform the policy and research imperatives facing government and non-government users. The information should meet priority data needs and associated development actions that have already been articulated such as Caring for our Country.

The ABS invites, and welcomes, feedback on this strategy and has a particular interest in understanding;

1. whether the mix and frequency of the collection of agricultural commodity information meets the requirements of our users,
2. whether the frequency of the natural resource management information meets the requirements of our users,
3. what are the small area data requirements that should be considered by the ABS as part of the five yearly censuses,
4. are there any additional information requirements, in relation to agricultural businesses, that should be included in this strategy; and
5. does this strategy better meet the broad requirements of our users, i.e have we got it right?

Feedback can be provided to Karen Connaughton on (02) 6252 5337 or by email to Agriculture.Statistics@abs.gov.au.