Horticulture Australia Limited (HAL) has said that its board and members have agreed to follow the recommendation of an independent review for the organization to transition to a grower-owned Research & Development Corporation (RDC). 

The decision was made at a collaborative meeting held in Melbourne on Wednesday, which followed the release on May 6 of a report published by Perth-based ACIL Allen. A key recommendation was that HAL should transition from its current Peak Industry Body ownership structure to a grower-owner corporation.

In a press release, HAL chairman Selwyn Snell said he was very pleased with the decision made during this week's meeting, and was looking forward to working with a variety of people, including members and growers, to make the transition.

"Following a series of discussions, we were pleased to reach strong agreement on a united and collaborative approach to move to the next stage towards HAL becoming a grower owned body," Snell said.

HAL has said it will continue to work together with its members over the coming months to ensure a smooth transition to a grower-owned entity.

In its review, ACIL Allen also urged for the implementation of more transparent and direct communication practices with levy-paying growers.

Related story: Horticulture Australia needs overhaul, independent study finds

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