AgriFutures Australia is seeking a service provider to conduct horizon-scanning research that will explore the themes and trends that will impact Australia’s rural industries over the next 10 to 15 years.

The Request for Quote closes Friday, 3 November 2023 12 noon AEDT.

Background:

AgriFutures Australia investments are driven by our Strategic Research and Innovation Plan 2022-2027 which addresses the needs of industries and stakeholders. Our aim is to increase knowledge that fosters sustainable, productive new and existing rural industries and further understanding of nationally significant rural issues through research and development of government-industry partnerships.

AgriFutures Australia’s National Challenges and Opportunities (NCO) focus area has a priority to future-proof Australian rural industries. Being able to look over the horizon and prepare for the future is challenging. But in times of rapid and diverse change, horizon scanning can be the difference between success and failure.

· Horizon scanning may include using an innovative approach to explore:

· Emerging risks that rural industries need to plan and respond to over the medium to long-term.

· Opportunities that could create increased profits and growth of Australian rural industries.

· The discovery of ‘blind spot’ issues, opportunities and challenges.

· The identification of areas of changed public sentiment or growing consumer concern.

Timeline:

Date: Activity

Thursday, 5 October 2023: RFQ – applications open.

Friday, 27 October 2023: End of period for questions or requests for information.

Friday, 12 noon AEDT 3 November, 2023: RFQ – applications close.

Friday, 10 November 2023: Intended completion date of evaluation of respondent’s applications

Note: please be available: Tuesday, 14 November 2023 for interview if needed.

Thursday, 16 November 2023: Negotiations with respondents (if applicable).

Friday, 24 November 2023: Expected execution of contract or issue of agreement – commencement of Project.

Thursday, 29 February 2024: Report delivery date.

Friday, 26 April 2024: Expected project completion date.

Service requirements:

AgriFutures Australia is seeking a dynamic service provider to collaborate with us in advancing a fresh horizon-scanning initiative. This comprehensive scan aims to pinpoint and delve into the pivotal themes and trends poised to shape Australia’s rural industries over the next 3-15 years, with a focus on the medium-term (3-8 years) and long-term (8-15 years) perspectives.

Specifically, AgriFutures Australia is in search of a qualified partner to deliver forward-looking foresight, enabling early detection of issues, challenges, and opportunities within the Australian agriculture landscape. This endeavour will illuminate how these factors will impact our vital food and fibre producers, offering an insightful overview of both the opportunities and challenges inherent in these emerging themes and trends.

This work is not limited to public sector issues, we are interested in understanding the issues and trends that are relevant to producers of all stages of maturity, as well as the private sector and agtech startups.The project requires a comprehensive exploration of themes and trends arising from the domestic and international arenas, spanning both public and private sectors, agtech startups, consumer trends and evolving preferences, along with political and public debate.

How to make a submission:

Applications for this Request for Quote must be submitted online using the application in K2.

Users must create a K2 account before submitting a proposal. To set up a secure account before submitting a proposal, please visit the login page below to access our new user or new company request forms.

Usernames and passwords will only be issued while the applicable round is open.

If you require assistance, please contact helpdesk@agrifutures.com.au

Terms of reference:

AgriFutures Australia uses standard form contracts and agreements for projects and research procured by AgriFutures Australia. These contracts and agreements set out the terms on which AgriFutures Australia will engage successful applicants to carry out the project.

Applicants must be familiar with the contracts and agreements before submitting a response and are advised to seek legal advice beforehand.

These contracts and agreements have been developed to reflect AgriFutures Australia’s statutory and other procurement responsibilities.

If you require any amendments to the standard agreement, please complete the statement of non-compliance for each of the relevant clause. AgriFutures will then assess those requests.

Applicants will be taken to have agreed to all clauses in the Provider Agreement that are not referred to in a statement of non-compliance. The extent of any non-compliance will be a factor in AgriFutures Australia’s evaluation of the application.

Contact:

If you have any questions about the RFQ process or requirements in the management services, please contact:

Jessica McInerney, Manager, National Rural Issues, Email: Jessica.mcinerney@agrifutures.com.au