Share your ideas for improving the Horticulture Code of Conduct.

The Horticulture Code of Conduct (the Code) regulates trade between growers and traders of fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts. It aims to ensure clarity and transparency of trading arrangements between horticulture traders and growers and support dispute resolution.

The review of the Code will be undertaken by Mr Chris Leptos AO, and will assess how the needs of the industry have evolved over the last decade, and whether the Code should be repealed, continue in its current form, or continue with improvements.

To inform the review, we have developed a Horticulture Code of Conduct Review Consultation Paper to consult stakeholders across the horticulture supply chain on potential improvements to the Code.

Terms of Reference

Since the last review of the Code in 2015, the industry has grown and diversified. This review will consider whether the Code is still required, operating as intended and fit-for-purpose.

The review will consider:

  • whether the Code should continue in its current form, be amended or be repealed

  • the effectiveness of the Code in meeting its purpose to ensure transparency and clarity of transactions between growers and traders

  • the effectiveness of the Code in meeting its purpose to supply a fair and equitable dispute resolution procedure for disputes arising under the Code or a Horticulture Produce Agreement (HPA)

  • the knowledge of the Code by growers and traders and any matters related to compliance of the Code

  • the scope of the Code

  • options for improving the operation of the Code.

Key Documents

Horticulture Code of Conduct Review Consultation Paper [PDF 930 KB] [Word 3.2 KB]

Timeline

  • Consultation paper released for feedback
    current

    28 January 2026

  • Survey on consultation paper closes
    pending

    6 March 2026

  • Final report released
    pending

    TBC 2026

  • Government Response released
    pending

    TBC 2026

Contact
Horticulture Code Review Secretariat: