AUSVEG supports today’s announcement from the Minister for Agriculture Barnaby Joyce and the Minister for Small Business Bruce Billson of an independent review into the Horticulture Code of Conduct, with growers and industry stakeholders to have their say about regulation in the sector.

The independent review will be conducted by Mr Mark Napper and Mr Allen Wein to examine the regulations of the mandatory code, and ensure it remains relevant since it was established nine years ago to protect growers in their dealings with traders.

“AUSVEG welcomes the announcement of an independent review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct, and Ministers Joyce and Billson are to be commended for taking this step,” said AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy.

“The Horticulture Code of Conduct is vital to ensuring growers are protected when trading with wholesalers and agents and that business is conducted appropriately.”

“This review will ensure that the Code will remain relevant to the current needs of the industry, and that all areas of Australian horticulture can be properly protected.”

“It is important that this review strikes a balance between ensuring Australia’s growers and traders conduct themselves appropriately in their business dealings, while at the same time ensuring growers are able to receive fair value for their produce.”

“AUSVEG continues to support the intent behind the Horticulture Code of Conduct, and believes the review can help create a more robust Code.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

First implemented in 2007, the Code was intended to address market failure and provide clarity and transparency for growers and traders by making clear each party’s rights, as well as offer a fair and equitable dispute resolution process.

“It is important to ensure that vegetable and potato growers, who are the fundamental base for Australia’s over $9 billion horticulture industry, are given adequate protections by the Code and have a viable avenue to voice complaints when they believe they are being unfairly treated,” said Mr Mulcahy.

“AUSVEG looks forward to working closely with Government and interested stakeholders to ensure this review takes into consideration the interests of growers and that they are incorporated into regulation that protects growers.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:  Andrew MacDonald, AUSVEG Manager – Communications
Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0406 836 330, Email: andrew.macdonald@ausveg.com.au