The survey will seek information on irrigated agricultural production, the financial situation of irrigators, and the issues faced in maintaining farm profitability.

"Currently there is little comprehensive or consistent information across the Basin on the economic characteristics of irrigators," explains ABARE's Executive Director, Phillip Glyde.

"The survey is an important first step in addressing the issues facing irrigators. Results for 2006-07 will provide a base period for examining future trends in industry performance."

"Growers who participate in this survey will be making an important contribution to the development of policies and programs that will affect the future of irrigation industries," Mr Glyde added.

The survey is supported by the National Farmers" Federation Water Taskforce and the Horticulture Australia Council.

"The NFF encourages irrigators and water users to participate in the survey. The survey will provide important information about the value of irrigation to the Australian economy and also identify future trends in the way irrigators will manage their businesses," said Laurie Arthur, Chairman of the NFF Water Taskforce.

Kris Newton, CEO, Horticulture Australia Council, says that this survey will assist with benchmarking and contribute directly to the planning underway for Future Focus: the Australian Horticulture Plan.

'While I recognise this is a really difficult time for growers, I strongly encourage their participation. This survey will give the industry the information needed to develop our plans for the future and assist with planning for the recovery of the Murray Darling Basin," she said.

All information provided by growers remains confidential. ABARE will only be releasing the results from the survey as farm averages. The survey interviews are conducted on-farm by identified ABARE data collectors.