- Minister Littleproud welcomes Red Meat Advisory Council's review of red meat Memorandum of Understanding
- The MOU was established in 1998; defines the roles, responsibilities and funding of red meat industry bodies
- The review will be led by Jim Varghese as Chair
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud today welcomed the Red Meat Advisory Council's independent review of the rules of engagement in the red meat industry.
The review will look at the industry's Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), and examine whether it properly represents all sectors of the industry and is fit for the future.
Jim Varghese will lead the review as Chair. Jim has a 30 year track record of delivering results, as both a CEO and as head of government agencies in Queensland and Victoria.
"Our red meat industry is big business and we need to make sure it's ready for new opportunities and challenges," Minister Littleproud said.
"The MOU put in place 20 years ago carves out the funding and service delivery arrangements between peak councils, RDCs and the Commonwealth.
"What was put in place two decades ago might not be fit for today.
"The review is also in line with the recommendations of the Senate Inquiry into the effect of market consolidation on the red meat processing sector.
"It is an important opportunity to set the direction of the sector.
"I thank RMAC for showing the leadership to have this work done."
Fast facts
- The MOU underpinned the restructuring of the former meat and livestock statutory organisations in 1998. The MoU was agreed on 27 April 1998.
- The beef cattle industry—including slaughter and live exports—is the largest contributor to Australian agriculture, with gross production of $13 billion.
- The lamb industry has production of $3.2 billion.
- Australia is the world's largest lamb exporter, third largest beef exporter and largest goat meat exporter.
