Joe Ludwig (Queensland, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Xenophon for his interest in cost recovery impact statements. A cost recovery impact statement was prepared in association with the changes to the horticultural fees and charges and is available on the department's website. The department's website is www.daff.gov.au and the link to the document should appear if the senators type 'horticultural CRIS' into their search field.

I accept that the horticultural sector is vast and diverse and not all members of the supply chain are members of industry organisations. That is why the department wrote to all registered establishments in 2012 on two occasions to advise them of the new fees and charges. The department will work with individuals to assess their individual circumstances and requirements to ensure that we can continue to work with them to ensure their fees are as low as possible. (Time expired)