HARPS independent evaluation update
Publication date: 10 October 2022
An independent evaluation of the Harmonised Australian Retailer Produce Scheme (HARPS) is currently underway with interviews taking place with more than 40 growers plus peak bodies, retailers, and other stakeholders.
Being delivered by consultancy Strategic Project Partners (SPP), the work is independent of the general HARPS 2.0 program. The technical elements in the recently contracted HARPS 2.0 program are not captured within the scope of the evaluation as the program underwent a two-year consultation process, was piloted with industry and is being rolled out with a transition period for growers to adjust to the updated version.
The evaluation will identify and analyse the strengths and weaknesses in the current approach for all stakeholders, assess the outcomes achieved and recommend future and ongoing opportunities to enable HARPS to maximise impact, relevance and remove duplication.
Evaluation activities include:
- Evaluating all program activities and their relevance to industry, including market demand and value proposition for growers/suppliers of all scales
- Evaluating the commercialisation approach to HARPS including governance, regulatory, policy and benefit-cost considerations, including end-user/adoption considerations
- Provide clear recommendations for the future of HARPS including deficiencies or gaps within HARPS and opportunities to build on the model.
The findings of the independent evaluation are due late October. For more information, go to the HARPS website or get in touch with bianca.cairns@horticulture.com.au.