Research survey - drivers and constraints for change in vineyards

You are invited to participate in a research study on drivers and constraints for change in vineyards.

The study is being conducted by Anne Johnson from the School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Science (SAEVS), at Charles Sturt University. Anne is supervised by Professor Geoff Gurr and Dr Jason Smith from SAEVS and Dr Judith Crockett and Dr Yann Guisard from the Faculty of Science and Health. Charles Sturt University is an Australian University, TEQSA Provider Identification: PRV12018. Charles Sturt University CRICOS Provider: 00005F

Before you decide whether or not you wish to participate in this study, it is important for you to understand why the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take the time to read the following information carefully and discuss it with others if you wish.

What is the purpose of this study?

Across Australia wine grape growers are making changes in and around the vineyard to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, as well as evolving knowledge on the benefits that biodiversity can provide to agriculture. This study aims to identify the motivating and constraining factors behind these changes.

The survey consists of a series of statements that other growers have made about their experiences with various viticultural and biodiversity practices. We would like to to read these statements and tell use if you agree or disagree with them.

Why have I been invited to participate in this study?

We are seeking to survey wine grape growers from across Australian winegrowing regions. If you are involved in vine and farm management decisions, we invite take the survey. If you are not currently in a position that makes decisions in viticulture please do not  participate.

What does this study involve?

We have put together a series of statements that are based on comments made by wine grape growers during a previous study using face to face interviews. We are now asking other grape growers to agree or disagree with these statements. We are not asking you to change any of your management practices, nor will we be passing any practice information or observation on to any external organisations.

Are there risks and benefits to me in taking part in this study?

There are no risks associated with filling out the survey. We cannot promise any individual benefit from participating in this research. We don’t expect this survey to be distressing for you, but in the unlikely event that you do feel distressed, please contact your GP or https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support.

How is this study being paid for?

This research is funded through Australian Government Research Training Program through the Gulbali Institute at Charles Sturt University. This work was also supported by Wine Australia, with levies from Australia’s grapegrowers and winemakers and matching funds from the Australian Government. The Australian Government and Wine Australia do not have any input into the research results.

Will taking part in this study cost me anything, and will I be paid?

Aside from 10 to 15 minutes of your time there is no cost to participate in the survey. There is no reimbursement or payments available for participants.

What if I don't want to take part in this study?

Participation in this research is entirely your choice. Whether or not you decide to participate, is your decision and will not disadvantage you.

What if I participate and want to withdraw later?

You can stop and leave the survey website at any time. All changes to the survey form are recorded even if the survey is not completed. As the survey is anonymous your data cannot be withdrawn later as we have no way of identifying an individual’s survey response.

How will my confidentiality be protected?

The survey is anonymous, you will not be asked for your identity except for some questions about your vineyard and role. All information collected in the survey is stored securely and only accessed by the researchers, except as required by law.

What will happen to the information that I give you?

General findings of this research will be discussed at public research updates at Charles Sturt University and with Wine Australia. Industry magazines may carry articles about the research findings. Individual survey responses will not be available outside the research team. The PhD thesis arising from this research will be publically available via Charles Sturt. Individual participants will not be identified in the thesis or in any publications arising from the project.

What should I do if I want to discuss this study further before deciding?

If you would like further information about the project please contact Anne Johnson or Geoff Gurr. Contact details are on the front of this sheet.

Who should I contact if I have concerns about the conduct of this study?

Charles Sturt University’s Human Research Ethics Committee has approved this project. If you have any complaints or reservations about the ethical conduct of this project, you may contact the Committee through the Research Integrity Unit via the following contact details:

The Presiding Officer

Human Research Ethics Committee

Research Integrity Unit

Locked Bag 588

Wagga Wagga NSW 2678

Phone: (02) 6933 4213

Email: ethics@csu.edu.au

Any issues you raise will be treated in confidence and investigated thoroughly, and you will be informed of the outcome.