QUEENSLAND families are paying more for fresh produce at the supermarket, but farmers are not reaping the financial benefits – in fact, they are making less.
As a result, ABS data shows Australians are consuming less fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy.
Instead, Aussies are favouring cheaper, packaged foods like cereals and convenience foods.
Now, the Queensland Government is set to trial a farm gate price monitoring scheme led by industry to establish industry pricing standards.
The scheme will work across industry to collate and analyse farm financial performance, historical data and weekly wholesale and retail pricing data to monitor trends across the top 20 products.
This information, in tandem with contract negotiation and cost of production training, will give farmers the information and skills to effectively negotiate better deals – resulting in fairer returns.
Workshops will be held in each major growing region to upskill growers in the art of negotiation, ensuring they are confident in their dealings with buyers and retailers.
The government will also seek to develop a production cost best practice model for Queenslander growers. This will help farmers understand their profitability and risk.
It comes as the Queensland Supermarket Pricing Select Committee (Parliamentary Inquiry) extends the submission period until Friday, 19 April.
The Committee intends to shine a light on price transparency, from farm gate to plate, and examine the cause and effect of increased supermarket prices.
Premier Steven Miles shared in a Facebook post that he had met with Bundaberg tomato farmer Trevor and wanted to share some of Trevor’s story.
“Bundaberg region farmer Trevor left his tomato crop on the vine last year,” Premier Miles posted.
“He told me the price he got offered by the supermarkets was so low, he would’ve suffered a loss picking them.
“Trevor’s story is all too common: farmers are getting less, while families are paying more for fresh produce at the checkout.”
Queensland farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard said the federation welcomed the announcement.
“QFF welcomes this announcement and the willingness of government to partner with industry on what is a critical issue for farmers and consumers,” she said.
“Market transparency and fair trading terms need to be improved to ensure the future viability of farmers and everyday Australian’s ability to access and afford Australian food.
“Food insecurity in Australia and globally is rising. We cannot sit on our laurels. We must work to support a sustainable future for food a d fibre production for the benefit of future generations.”
Queenslanders are encouraged to make a submission via the Queensland Parliament website.
Keep up with the latest news in Cairns and the Far North, and check out some of our top stories this week: Search and rescue, Saibai Island and CQUniversity partners with Taipans.
