After extensive engagement with woolgrowers nationwide and their industry representative bodies, the board of Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) is recommending a 2% levy at the upcoming WoolPoll.

AWI Chairman Jock Laurie says WoolPoll is an opportunity for growers to have their say on the level of funding for their grower owned research, development and marketing company.

“The Voter Information Memorandum (VIM) sent to eligible growers shows the very different revenue and expenditure options covered by 0.1, 1.5 and 2 per cent and the projects that are possible as a result.

“A vote for 1.5% levy is a vote for a significant cut in programs.”

When the VIM was approved in July it showed a $10 million reduction in spending next financial year with a 1.5% levy.

Since then, lower forecasts in production and in the EMI mean AWI project spending will drop even further.

The levy is a collective investment in the future of the industry, and it is up to growers to choose their levy”.

Voting packs will be sent to nearly 40,000 growers who paid more than $100 in wool levy over the previous three years.

The vote on the levy is held every three years.

Voting allocations are based on how much wool is sold during that period.

Voting opened on September 20 and closes at 5pm November 1.

The result of WoolPoll will be announced at the AWI Annual General Meeting on November 15.