The Horticulture Code came into effect on 14 May 2007 as a prescribed mandatory industry code of conduct under the Trade Practices Act 1974.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry assists the Australian Government to develop the law on horticulture industry matters. Further information on DAFF’s role is available on the DAFF website.
On 13 September 2007 the Hon. Peter McGauran, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, announced the appointment of a committee of growers, wholesalers and market operators to advise the Australian Government on the operation of the Horticulture Code. You can view the minister's news release here.
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.
Role of the ACCC
Our role 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. We do this by developing educational material such as guidelines, articles and fact sheets as well as giving presentations through our outreach programs in each state and territory.
We are also responsible for investigating 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 our Infocentre on 1300 302 502.
