ABC News reports that the MLA is aiming to cut its budget by $6 million or 10 percent of operating costs due to a forecast fall in levy revenue from producers, representing a drop of close to $6 million over a two year period.
In addition to the cuts, two of MLA’s general managers announced their resignation on Monday including Peter Vaughan who was the head of the association’s Livestock Production Innovation research.
Up to 248 staff are also expected to be cut globally within the next four weeks.
In terms of research, MLA’s research in livestock production will be placed under the microscope following a strategic research review last year. The review highlighted 11 recommendations including improving transparency, and a focus on larger, long-term projects.
According to MLA’s managing director, Richard Norton, the association will also be simplifying the system which enables sheep and beef levy payers to have a say in research priorities, allowing these producers to better understand how they can influence the R&D levies.
"Having this level of direct consultation on an annual cycle will be resource intensive, but this structure will allow true two-way engagement on the levy investment," he said.
