Citrus Australia Limited

Mandatory Horticulture Code

The Horticulture Code of Conduct is a prescribed mandatory industry code that was introduced by the Federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry on 14 May 2007.

The Purpose of the Horticulture Code

The Horticulture Code regulates trade in horticulture produce between growers and wholesale traders (traders) to encourage greater clarity and commercial transparency in transactions between these parties. The Horticulture Code also provides an alternative to litigation by setting out an effective and inexpensive way of resolving disputes that may arise between growers and traders.

Useful Information

Horticulture Code of Conduct Information Brochure

Trader's Term of Trade Template

Horticulture Produce Agreement Template

Role of the ACCC

The role of the ACCC is to ensure compliance with the Horticulture Code by helping traders and growers to understand their rights and obligations under the code and the Trade Practices Act. They provide educational material such as guidelines, articles and fact sheets as well as giving presentations through their outreach programs in each state and territory.

They also investigate complaints and, where necessary, taking enforcement action against anyone who fails to comply with the Horticulture Code. For further information, or to make a complaint, contact their Infocentre on 1300 302 502.

Further information:

HAC update 30th April 2007

HAC website: www.hac.org.au hac.org.au

DAFF website: www.daff.gov.au

ACCC website: www.accc.gov.au

Archive Material

Hort Code kicks off with little confusion

Article from Queensland Country Life, weekly rural newspaper

ACCC Horticulture Code questions and answers: www.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/786800

Does the Horticulture Code Apply to Packing Houses?

ACCC fact sheet

Media Release from Hon Peter McGauran MP, 10 May 2007: