THE Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) is encouraging everyone who live and work in cotton communities to participate in the 2020 Regional Wellbeing Survey.

The survey, which is conducted annually by the University of Canberra, measures the wellbeing of people living in rural and regional Australia.

Taking part in the survey enables those in regional areas to have their say on issues ranging from how local communities are changing, to individual health and wellbeing.

This year, for the first time, the survey is specifically looking at cotton community wellbeing, through support from CRDC.

All involved in the cotton industry, plus those who live and work in towns where cotton is grown, are asked to participate in the survey to get a clear picture on the wider community wellbeing.

“The Regional Wellbeing Survey is the largest annual national survey examining the wellbeing and quality of life in Australia’s rural and regional areas,” CRDC executive director Dr Ian Taylor said.

“This year, we’ve partnered with the University of Canberra survey team to specifically look at cotton communities.

“Cotton is grown in more than 40 rural local government areas, and is a significant economic contributor to 27 of them. Growers make an average of 80 per cent of their purchases locally.

“However, the richness of a community is measured in much more than pure economics: wellbeing and social capital (things like social connections, support and networks) – bind our communities together.

“Last year, for the first time, we included wellbeing in our Australian Cotton Sustainability Report – and, the results from this year’s survey will help inform the next step in our sustainability journey: the setting of our ‘social’ sustainability targets.

“If you live and work in a cotton community – even if you’re not involved in cotton at all – we are asking you to please participate in the survey: to tell us about your wellbeing and your experience living and working in your local community.”

Source: CRDC

The survey is voluntary, confidential and anonymous. You can participate online or request a paper survey. It is open until 30 October at www.regionalwellbeing.org.au