The Australian Farm Institute was established in 2004 to conduct research into public policy issues impacting on the Australian farm sector, and to promote policy solutions that maximise the economic and social wellbeing of farmers. To do this, the Institute undertakes research on specific farm policy issues, promoting the outcomes of this research to policy-makers. AFI is the only stand-alone Institute of this nature established to focus solely on agricultural policy issues. The Institute has a commitment to ensuring research findings are the conclusion of high quality, rigorous and objective analysis. The Institute’s research is overseen by a Research Advisory Committee consisting of experienced senior researchers and academics. The Committee identifies strategic issues, and oversee the quality of research contracted out by the Institute to ensure it is of the highest calibre and is conducted objectively. Broadly, the Institute’s research program is structured around three key themes: * Agricultural businesses – focusing on issues that impact on the ability of farmers to operate profitable businesses * Agricultural resources – focusing on natural resource management issues that impact on farmers * Agricultural communities – focusing on social issues impacting on farmers and their regional communities. Research promotion is important to the Institute as it assists in the development of sound and innovative policy solutions, in addition to enlightening the wider community. A variety of publications are produced, including a quarterly journal, as well as seminars and events that provide opportunities for Institute researchers and policy-makers to exchange ideas. Individuals and corporations are encouraged to support, contribute to, and become involved with, the work of the Institute.
