THOSE wanting to make submissions to the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct Taskforce established by the Coalition Government now have more time to do so.
Federal Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch, who is participating in the taskforce, said it had been set up to investigate the need for a potential code of conduct for the industry.
“This is a critical issue for the sugar industry, and we want to ensure that those making submissions had sufficient time to respond,” Mr Entsch said.
“We are looking for submissions from farmers, grower organisations and millers and these should include any information or recommendations on the following points when they do so.”
• The concept that growers’ have an “economic interest” in the sugar they supply to the mill;
• The growers’ ability to choose a marketing entity for their “economic interest”;
• Transparency of sugar marketing activities;
• The mill supply contract negotiation process;
• Protecting growers from discrimination by millers;
• Arbitration where agreement cannot be reached as part of a contract negotiation process;
• The encourage of investment in high-quality mills, milling procedures and marketing arrangements;
• The facilitation of financial returns for growers;
• State and Commonwealth Acts relating to the sugar industry and competition; and
• Codes of conduct in other industries.
The deadline for submissions has now been extended from April 17 until May 1, and they should be sent via email to: warren.entsch.mp@aph.gov.au
Those seeking more information can contact Mr Entsch's office on 4051 2220.
