At Hort Innovation, we invest in research and development (R&D), marketing and trade to help Australian growers stay productive, competitive and ready for the future.

Independent reviews help make sure those investments are delivering value for growers and industry. For some larger, longer-term or high-value projects, they provide an opportunity to check progress, confirm the project is still heading in the right direction, and make sure it can deliver the outcomes growers need. Not every project requires a review. They are typically used where there is a need for a more in-depth assessment of progress, impact or future direction.  

These reviews look beyond project milestones and timelines. They explore whether the project is still relevant to industry needs, whether new technologies or changing conditions have affected its direction, and whether the approach being used is likely to achieve the intended results. They also help identify opportunities to improve the project while there is still time to act on the findings.

An independent reviewer brings a fresh perspective and can often spot risks, opportunities or challenges that may be harder to see from inside the project team. Their insights can help strengthen project outcomes, improve industry engagement and ensure investment funds are being used effectively.  

Some reviews are commissioned separately, while others form part of the project itself. In either case, reviewers examine project information, speak with growers, partners and other industry representatives, and provide recommendations to help guide the next stage of the project.  

Review reports are confidential and are not publicly released. This allows reviewers, industry stakeholders and project teams to provide candid feedback, while protecting commercially sensitive information. The findings are used by Hort Innovation to improve project delivery, strengthen future investments, and maximise value for growers and the broader horticulture industry.

If you have any questions about independent reviews, please reach out to us at communications@horticulture.com.au.