Wheat exporters continue to benefit from the Wheat Port Code, according to industry feedback released in a review today.
Consultation showed the code has increased transparency and is allowing bulk wheat exporters to get Australia's wheat out to the world market.
Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the review recommended the Wheat Port Code (WPC) continue, making only technical recommendations to further improve its operation.
"We listened to farmers, bulk handers, exporters and experts to make sure the code is giving exporters fair and transparent access to port terminals," Minister Littleproud said.
"The taskforce met with more than 30 stakeholders—including government agencies, grower and industry representative bodies, exporters and port terminal operators.
"The review received submissions from 15 organisations.
"It makes sense to review codes to make sure they are doing what they're supposed to do.
"The review made 12 recommendations to clarify and strengthen some parts of the code, including extending it to cover other grains.
" The review recommends the code stay in place and be reviewed again in 2022.
"I will consult with stakeholders as I consider the report ahead of releasing a government response to the review in coming months."
The review can be found on the department's website at: www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/crops/wheat
Fast Facts:
- The Wheat Port Code is a mandatory code of conduct which began in 2014.
- It aims to cut red tape, increase transparency and safeguard the export supply chain.
- The Code balances the interests of port terminal owners who own export trading businesses, and the interests of other exporters.
- Most of Australia's wheat crop goes to Asia, Africa and the Middle East
- Australia exported 22 million tonnes of wheat valued at more than $6 billion in 2016-17, and 10.7 million tonnes of course grains valued at over $2.8 billion.
