Examining just how much impact these offences have on primary producers is the aim of a new study into rural crime being conducted by researchers at the University of New England.
Associate Professor in Criminology and lead researcher in the project, Dr Elaine Barclay, said it has been more than ten years since a similar survey was last conducted in New South Wales.
"The previous study highlighted the problems farmers were experiencing, and the findings supported an appeal to the NSW state government for more resources for policing farm crime," Assoc Professor Barclay said.
"As a result there are now 33 Rural Crime Investigators and one Rural Crime Intelligence Analyst across NSW.
"Livestock movements and identification are more closely monitored, and legislation has been improved regarding trespassing, illegal hunting on farms and the dealing of wool, hides and skins."
Elaine Barclay says this new study is being expanded to consider the impact of rural crime in Queensland, and primary producers in both New South and Queensland are being asked to take part.
"The findings of this survey will continue to raise awareness of farm crime and identify measures that might be taken by farmers, governments, police, courts and other agencies to reduce the incidence of farm crime. As crime is continually changing, the ways to address crime must change.
"Primary producers are invited to complete an online survey which will take between 15 and 30 minutes to complete, depending on their own experiences of crime.
"It will be important to hear from landholders that have never been a victim of crime to ensure that the study produces an accurate measure of what is happening on farm."
The survey can be accessed here.
