Public consultation on the topic is closed.
How you had your say
We sought feedback to help inform the review of the Sugar Code of Conduct.
We invited feedback from stakeholders across the sugar industry including:
sugarcane growers
milling companies
sugar marketers
industry representative organisations
local, state and federal government
Stakeholders provided feedback through:
an online survey
written submissions
Who engaged
283 people participated in this phase of the review. Most respondents identified as sugarcane growers.
What you said
We heard a variety of views on the efficacy of the Code in meeting industry needs and objectives. There was strong grower support for the Sugar Code being remade and its role in facilitating fair negotiations and securing grower choice in marketing. Millers noted the need for proportionate regulatory settings and that these should not undermine the commercial viability of the industry. Some submissions raised emerging issues such as biofuels and renewable energy, and the potential for industry participation in diversified value streams. Many submissions acknowledged the challenging commercial environment for sugarcane farmers and millers noting low global prices, high input costs, workforce pressures and infrastructure requirements.
What happens next
We will review and consider the feedback received as part of the Sugar Code review.
Submissions which provided the necessary permissions to be published will be made available on this page.
We are undertaking targeted consultation, including in-person engagements in key sugarcane regions, and virtual engagements. We are organising stakeholder meetings directly with mills, grower groups and other key stakeholders in Cairns, Townsville, Tully, Ayr, Mackay, Bundaberg and Brisbane. There will also be drop-in sessions available in some of these locations for those who want to participate in the consultation process. A link to register for the drop-in sessions will be available on this page shortly.
Following consultation, advice will be provided to Government on options for the future of the Code.