Comparing Australian public and farmer views on agricultural land use and management practices for sustainability

Using a survey of the public (n = 2032) and broadacre farmers (n = 351) in South Australia and Victoria, Australia, this research compares public and farmers' concerns regarding the acceptability and sustainability of agricultural operations. A principal component analysis was conducted on survey responses to 15 statements capturing environmental, social and governance issues related to agriculture practices and perceptions. This analysis revealed three dimensions: (1) issues related to animal welfare, greenhouse gas emissions and food safety; (2) issues related to farm input use; and (3) the use of socially valuable assets for private profits. Compared to farmers, the public were more concerned about the undersupply of public goods (e.g., farm animal welfare), and issues related to farm input use such as the use of synthetic fertilisers and chemicals. The public and farmers reported a similar level of concern regarding the use of socially valuable assets for private profit (e.g., irrigation water extraction). Regression analyses revealed associations between concerns and socio-demographic characteristics; environmental attitudes; sources of information; and farm characteristics. This study can act as a catalyst for developing practical strategies to analyse and overcome the issues, rather than symptoms, of concern affecting the agricultural industry and its sustainability.