Edition 42, March 2007

New code of conduct for growers and traders in the horticulture industry

A new mandatory code of conduct for the horticulture wholesale sector will be introduced on 14 May 2007.

The purpose of the code is to improve the clarity and transparency of transactions between growers and wholesalers of fresh fruit and vegetables.

The code is mandatory under the Trade Practices Act 1974 and will be enforced by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

The key requirements of the code will be that:

  • wholesalers publish their preferred terms of trade
  • growers and wholesalers use written agreements
  • wholesalers clearly identify themselves as either agents or merchants
  • wholesalers provide written transaction information to growers
  • independent assessment is available on transactions
  • compulsory mediation occurs if disputes arise

Agreements entered into on or after 15 December 2006 that continue beyond the code�s introduction will be subject to the code from the date it comes into effect.

For more information about the code, visit www.daff.gov.au/hortcode

This page was generated on 26 August, 2009