The Australian Blueberry Growers' Association (ABGA) has announced that the blueberry levy will be set at 5 cents per kilogram for the upcoming financial year starting 1 August 2025. This decision follows a two-year period during which the levy was temporarily reduced from 7c/kg to 3c/kg, beginning in August 2023. In light of recent challenging weather conditions and ongoing industry needs, the ABGA committee, comprising grower representatives, has chosen not to return to the full 7c/kg rate.
The levy will continue to operate voluntarily, rather than as a statutory requirement. This allows growers to retain full control over how their contributions are allocated and enables the ABGA to adjust the levy rate in response to industry priorities. The committee emphasized that maintaining key initiatives, such as export development and marketing, is vital to supporting long-term sustainability and growth for all growers.
In addition to core programs, the ABGA is currently funding legal efforts to challenge a government determination classifying nets and tunnels as farm buildings, a decision with far-reaching implications for blueberry producers. The association recently submitted a comprehensive report to the government outlining the negative impact of proposed development approvals for nets and tunnels, demonstrating the threat such regulations pose to farming operations. Funding for such advocacy efforts is not permitted under statutory levies, making the voluntary model critical for supporting this work.
The ABGA also highlighted the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)'s increasing data requirements to maintain minor use permits. The necessary trials must be funded by the industry. Although matched funding has been secured through a collective agreement with Hort Innovation, the ABGA still needs to commit over $200,000 in levy funds to support this essential work.
Over the past five years, the ABGA has invested significantly in export market development, marketing, and industry capability. The blueberry levy funds the Blueberry Industry Development Officer, contributes to the production of The Burst and the Australian Berry Journal, and supports access to agricultural chemicals via minor use permits, providing direct benefits to growers.
An information sheet outlining current levy investments and payment methods is attached. Growers who pay their levy through wholesalers or marketing entities do not need to take additional action.
The ABGA committee regularly reviews the levy rate and encourages interested growers to become more involved by nominating for committee positions.
For more information:
Rachel Mackenzie
Berries Australia
Tel: +61 0408 796 199
Email: [email protected]
www.berries.net.au
