Mr Colbeck, who is a Tasmanian Liberal senator, has taken over from Anne Ruston as Assistant Minister to David Littleproud.
Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie has congratulated Mr Colbeck on his new appointment and thanked Ms Ruston for her positive contributions to agriculture.
“Growcom is delighted to welcome the new Assistant Minister for Agriculture Mr Colbeck, who we worked productively with when he previously served as Minister for Tourism,” she said.
“We would also like to thank Ms Ruston for her years of service to the role as a strong promoter of horticulture and for her efforts in overseeing the review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct and supporting the Fair Farms Initiative.”
Ms Mackenzie said Growcom will continue to work with all levels of government to address our industry’s workforce issues and tarnished reputation as a result of worker exploitation.
“We look forward to working with Mr Colback to further the development of the Fair Farms training program and certification scheme with the aim of helping growers ensure they are compliant with workplace relations and industry standards,” she said.
“Growcom will also continue to work with all levels of government to inform growers across the state of their rights and obligations under the Horticulture Code of Conduct.”
“There remains work to be done in all areas of the supply chain to improve employment opportunities and we anticipate close collaboration with Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud and Assistant Minister Mr Colback to help solve workforce shortages.
“As the peak body for horticulture in Queensland, Growcom looks forward to working with government and industry bodies alike to advance fruit, vegetable and nut production and ensure horticulture remains a cornerstone of our economy.”