AU: Industry disappointment as labelling bill stalls
The report into these amendments was released recently by this committee, with four major recommendations, the first of which being that the bill as drafted should not be passed.
“Obviously we are disappointed that this draft of the bill has not been endorsed, as Country of Origin Labelling in its current form is incredibly difficult to understand and in vital need of an overhaul,” said Ausveg Public Affairs Manager, William Churchill.
Ausveg has been highly vocal over the past eighteen months regarding improvements required to the Country of Origin Laws, and has worked closely with the Australian Greens Party, consumer groups, the manufacturing sector and other farming organisations to develop the draft bill.
“Industry will obviously continue to provide feedback on the proposal as it is incredibly important in ensuring the long term viability of not only the Australian vegetable and potato industries but also broader agriculture,” said Mr Churchill.
“It is encouraging that the Greens have indicated that they intend to respond to the report with further improvements to the bill to address the recommendations made, and Ausveg will continue to work with the Greens on these amendments,” said Mr Churchill.
“It is imperative that both the Labor, Liberal and National parties declare where they stand on Country of Origin Labelling laws,” said Mr Churchill.
Recent research has revealed that 80 per cent of consumers surveyed agreed with the statement “I purchase Australian produce because I want to support our farmers and for Australia to have a viable industry."
“There is a high level of support for an overhaul of Country of Origin Labelling laws within the Australian community, so it is frustrating to see these improvements delayed, especially when the Senate report indicates this support for improvement in CoOL laws was reflected in a number of submissions made to the committee,” said Mr Churchill.
The report also identifies that many of the submissions made to the committee highlight the belief that current labelling terminology and standards are misleading.
Additional comments in the report, made by Independent Senator Nick Xenophon, refer to releases made by AUSVEG which highlight “a glaring loophole in our laws in that a vegetable from a third country could be packaged in New Zealand and labelled as a ‘Product of New Zealand’.”
“While such a practice can occur, the confusion of Australian consumers regarding the origin of their produce is entirely understandable. The current laws negate the right of the Australian consumer to make informed decisions and be confident in the origin of their produce,” said Mr Churchill.
For more information:
William Churchill
Ausveg
Tel: +61 (0)3 9822 0388
Mob: +61 (0)411 166 748
william.churchill@ausveg.com.au