Cane farmers: it's time to have your say

AUGUST 9, 2018: SUGAR growers, millers, marketers and the community are reminded that there is just two weeks left to make submissions to the Sugar Marketing Code of Conduct Review.Now is the time to have your say on this important issue, which basically provides a framework around who can market growers’ sugar.It’s been in place now for almost 18 months and we are working to ensure we get this review completed by the end of the year.I pushed for it to be brought forward so that we could provide further resolution of this issue and ensure growers have peace of mind around how their sugar is marketed.Following the close of submissions, there would be further opportunities for face-to-face consultation with those in the industry.We introduced the code to make sure that our canegrowers would be able to negotiate contracts with mills and marketers in a fair environment and to give growers choice in marketers.We want to ensure growers were guarded against the power imbalances in the sugar supply chain.It was a three-year battle to get this code put in place, and so it’s important that all in the industry take the time to make submissions for this review, as it will inform decisions on its continuance.The review will examine the Code in accordance with its terms of reference and provide advice to the government before the end of the year. Submissions close 5:00pm (AEST) Wednesday 22 August 2018.For more information about the Code review visit https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-of-conduct-review