For more information on the proposed changes and frequently answered questions please click to view AMGA Chairman Kevin Tolson's Letter to levy payers below.
Your Views on Proposed Changes to the Mushroom Levies
The AMGA Board has considered the findings of the independent ACIL Allen review of the current mushroom levy arrangements, which included direct consultation with Agaricus levy payers. The review found clear support for levy arrangements that better reflect the industry as it operates today.
The review found that growers continue to value collective R&D, particularly where the industry needs to work together on issues that individual businesses cannot readily address alone. It also identified strong support for a more tightly focused R&D program, with levy collections proportionate to clearly prioritised industry needs.
In addition, the review identified significant concern among growers about the current marketing levy, including whether the existing model is delivering sufficient and measurable value, whether growers have adequate influence over how funds are used, and whether the current arrangements remain appropriate for the structure of today's market.
The AMGA Board has now resolved to consult growers on the following proposed amendments:
| Levy component | Current rate | Proposed rate |
| Marketing Levy | $2.92 per kilogram of spawn | $0.00 |
| Research adn development levy | $1.08 per kilogram | $0.50 per kilogram of spawn |
The Board proposes to retain the current collection mechanism based on kilograms of spawn produced or purchased for commercial Agaricus production and the current exemption applying above 370,000 kilograms of spawn produced or purchased by a levy payer in a financial year.
Background to the proposal
Earlier this year, AMGA commissioned ACIL Allen to independently review the current levy arrangements and speak directly with growers. ACIL Allen contacted 23 identified Agaricus levy payers and completed interviews with 19 growers. This represents a very strong majority of the sector. As outlined above, the consultation showed that most growers continue to support a statutory levy in some form, while seeking significant changes to the current settings. We are continuing consultation now to ensure all growers are aware of the proposed changes and have the opportunity to ask questions and share their views. A short set of FAQs has been included with this letter to help explain the rationale and process around the proposed changes.
We are keen to hear what you think
If you have feedback, questions, concerns or would like further clarification on the proposal, please get in touch. Please include your name, business or levy-paying entity, position and confirmation that you are authorised to respond for the business.
Responses should be sent to:
JP van Moort jp.vanmoort@acilallen.com.au
by 5.00 pm on Friday 28 August 2026.
ACIL Allen will coordinate responses on behalf of AMGA. Individual comments will be treated confidentially and will not be publicly attributed without permission.
AMGA will continue to provide updates and opportunities for engagement in the lead up to and following formal submission of the request to government to change the levies.
Our goal is for the final proposal to reflect what the industry needs and to proceed with growers fully informed and properly consulted.