New horticulture code of conduct 

You have almost certainly heard about it. A lot of growers and wholesalers are talking about it. The new Horticulture code became law on the 14th of May, 2007.

The Horticulture Code will affect you. If you do not understand it, I urge you to find out.

Information is available from the ACCC in a number of languages including Arabic, Vietnamese, Khmer, Chinese and Punjabi.

Remember the code is there to provide protection and fairness for all parties (growers and traders) who are doing business together.

Key points to note about the Code are:

• Traders must publish their preferred “terms of trade”
• Traders must clearly identify for each and every transaction whether they are acting as AGENTS or as MERCHANTS
• • An AGENT sells on your behalf and acts in your best interest. They charge a commission for their service
  • A MERCHANT buys the product from you at an agreed price BEFORE they sell it to a third party
• Growers and traders need to use written horticulture produce agreements
• Traders need to provide written information about  transactions to growers
• Someone who is independent  can make assessments on transactions if required
• If there are any disputes about transactions, a low cost professional mediation service to available

There is plenty of information at the ACCC website: www.accc.gov.au/horticulturecode
Or, if you want to talk to someone about the Code of Conduct, contact the ACCC:
Martino Santi – 02 9230 9121
David Badewitz – 029230 9166