7105.0.55.001 - Discussion Paper: Environment and Agriculture Survey Program Review, 2011-12  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 11/10/2011  First Issue
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INTRODUCTION

Since the inception of the Environment and Agriculture Statistical Program, statistical collections have continued to evolve alongside changing information needs of users. The demand for an expanded view of agriculture data at lower geographical areas has continued to increase, alongside a growing need for environmental data related to climate change, land use, and clean energy initiatives. The 'triple bottom line' view of social, economic and environmental characteristics of agriculture has also emerged as a data priority, driven by international developments to improve agricultural and rural statistics, and the development of a Global Strategy1 to meet Millennium Development Goals.

As a result of both National and International developments, the ABS has continued to respond to emerging information needs resulting from shifting policy focuses. To ensure the statistical program is aligned and remains responsive to such changes, the ABS is undertaking a review of its Environment and Agriculture Statistical Program.


The main objectives of the program review are to:
  • ensure the Environment and Agriculture Statistical Program continues to be relevant and responsive to stakeholder needs;
  • identify and understand environmental and agricultural data sources to continue to improve our collection methodologies and enhance our outputs;
  • build upon relationships with ABS stakeholders to ensure continued communication for mutual benefit; and
  • ensure alignment of the ABS Environment and Agriculture Statistical Program with key Government policy and industry information needs.
This discussion paper, Environment & Agriculture Survey Program Review, 2011-12 (cat. no. 7105.0.55.001), aims to provide context for the Environment and Agriculture Survey Program review and will serve as a vehicle to initiate feedback from the statistical community to assist in the development of the future program. This paper will briefly outline the current Environment and Agriculture Statistical Program and associated drivers. It also includes details on the consultation process with an invitation for submissions at the end of the discussion paper.

1 For further information, see the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) website, <http://www.fao.org>, Global Strategy to Improve Agricultural and Rural Statistics (pdf)


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