John Cobb (Calare, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I risk to speak to support the independent review into the Horticulture Code of Conduct. I welcome the review, which I hope will give growers a full description of the terms and conditions they are currently operating under. The horticulture industry has been working hard towards reform for a lot of years. Following on from Labor's review after review, which came to nothing, we do mean business. Producers need assurances on the process which occurs after their fruit and vegetables leave the farm gate and make its way to the shelves. My electorate of Calare grows a range of fruit and vegetables—apples, cherries, cauliflower, corn and cabbage in the east and citrus, grapes and nuts in the west. They all deserve a robust trade and marketing arrangement.

My local producers tell me that they are heartened by the review announcement and look forward to improvements through its application within the industry. The review and its findings must be taken seriously. The review must create greater profitable opportunities for producers and ensure the best returns at the farm gate. I anticipate that the wholesalers, particularly in the markets, may put up some resistance. We must remain committed to a more transparent trade. I encourage farmers and others to have their say. We need to restore confidence in the code and its adherence.