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Reform unlikely to sweeten harvest
18 Aug 2003
Queensland's sugar industry reforms may be postponed until 2004, as a stalemate between state and federal governments makes the passing of laws in time for next year's cane season unlikely. The stand-off between the two governments has continued for some time and Queensland may lose $120 million in federal assistance for the sugar industry if it does not adequately amend its legislation.
It's understood the stumbling block relates to a new arbitration process between growers and millers. The Federal Government says the Bill would allow one party to avoid disputes hearings before the Sugar Industry Commissioner, by simply not participating. Growers say this would not allow them adequate redress to unfair contracts proposed by millers.
Queensland's Primary Industries Minister says the delay could set back the implementation of the reforms by one year.
The Courier-Mail, 18/8/03, page 7.
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