The Federal Government is describing the move as a "transparency measure", and is in keeping with its commitments made as part of the bulk wheat export marketing reforms of last year.

Legislation introduced last year requires the Productivity Commission to hold an inquiry into the operation of the Act and the export accreditation scheme.

In a statement to the press this afternoon, Assistant Treasurer Senator Nick Sherry and Minister for Agriculture Tony Burke said the inquiry is but "one of a number of checks and transparency measures incorporated to assist wheat growers and industry with the transition".

The Productivity Commission will also consider the operation of the Act and the Wheat Export Accreditation Scheme, including the role of the independent regulator Wheat Exports Australia.

The Commission will consider how the Act and the accreditation scheme affect stakeholders, including costs and benefits.

The Government says the Commission is required to consult widely, including with growers, grain industry representatives, accredited exporters, bag and container exporters, potential bulk exporters, bulk handling companies, Wheat Exports Australia, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and relevant government departments.

It will release a draft report for public comment and is required to report to the Government by 1 July 2010.