AUSVEG today has called on the Australian Government today to provide financial assistance for Australian producers for compliance with the recently introduced Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN) regulations that have been implemented as a National Security measure. Ammonium Nitrate as a farm fertiliser is the most practical, cost effective and environmentally friendly option available to Australian growers.

AUSVEG Chairman Michael Badcock, said that the costs associated with complying with the National Ammonium Nitrate regulations (SSAN) will impact on Australian producer’s ability to remain competitive. “Farmers recognise the importance of National Security but draw the line when it comes completely at our expense.

This is a National Security measure and Australian producers are the ones left carrying the entire cost, without any assistance from the Australian Government,” Michael said. “The introduced regulations make the continued use of this fertiliser impractical for sustained use and this will have cyclical effects on our businesses and Australian producer’s ability to remain competitive in international market places”.

Under the new SSAN regulations for Australian producers to attain a license for Ammonium Nitrate they require a suitable storage facility and need to undertake Australian Police and ASIO checks for the licensing, costing up to $10,000 AU. “The regulations make Ammonium Nitrate both costly and impractical for use, as the costs associated with compliance are far too onerous. Alternative products are also costly, with nitrogen concentrations that are potentially more damaging to the environment.

Michael said that he was disappointed by the Australian Government’s position on this issue given their recent support on country-of-origin labelling and the Industry Partnership Project (IPP). “It’s extremely disappointing for the Australian Government to place the entire cost burden of this important security measure solely on the shoulders of Australian producers,” Michael said.

“Australian producers do their utmost to remain competitive and deliver quality produce for Australian consumers, the Australian government has given overseas markets yet another competitive advantage over Australian producers”.

For more information on the National Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN) regulations please visit www.ausveg.com.au