Australia-wide surveys of Australian beekeepers begin today as part of a project to provide more information about the state of the industry and set future directions in industry strategy, and research and development.

ABARE is doing the survey on behalf of the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation's (RIRDC) Honeybee program.

The survey will explore the characteristics of honeybee businesses, production efficiency and profitability, and demographic and socio-economic circumstances of people in the industry.

RIRDC managing director, Peter O'Brien, and ABARE executive director, Phillip Glyde, highlighted the importance of the survey for the honeybee industry.

"This survey will assist in the development of strategies and research and development programs to improve the long term productivity of the honeybee industry," Dr O'Brien said.

"As well as producing quality honey and honey-related goods for Australian and world markets, the industry plays an important role in agricultural production with around 65pc of Australian crops dependent to some extent on honeybees for pollination.

"It is essential that apiarists are well informed and able to develop strategies to address current and future challenges," Dr O’Brien said.

Mr Glyde said survey results would assist with industry benchmarking to target industry efforts to improve performance.

"It is important we get accurate information from beekeepers about their industry so we can work cooperatively to improve its future. I strongly encourage apiarists to co-operate."

Interviews will be conducted by phone by identified ABARE data collectors. All information provided remains confidential. Information collected will only be published or released at a regional data level and will not identify individuals or their businesses.

The survey is scheduled to start on April 14 with survey results expected to be released in July.