Dust off your HPA
The relationship between growers and traders is more than just a transactional exchange; it is the foundation of livelihoods for many in the horticulture industry. However, this dynamic often operates within a framework that is misunderstood, underutilised, or at times, overlooked entirely.
The Horticulture Code of Conduct and the resulting Horticulture Produce Agreements (HPA) were established to address these challenges, providing a structure of transparency, accountability, and fairness. Yet, their full potential remains unrealised due to a lack of awareness and engagement across the supply chain.
For far too long, these Agreements are the last thing growers pull out in any dispute when they really should be the first. They should also be referred to throughout the entire trading relationship. If a HPA isn’t on your desk – it should be.
The Code serves two essential purposes: regulating trade in horticultural produce and creating a fair dispute resolution mechanism. These are critical goals in an industry where rapid, high-stakes negotiations over pricing, ownership, and accountability are common. However, achieving true transparency—the cornerstone of the Code—requires an educated and informed industry.
A recent workshop by Fresh Markets Australia highlighted a significant gap in education around HPA’s. For growers, these agreements are not just bureaucratic formalities; they are the foundation of wholesale market transparency and a critical tool for protecting their interests. Yet, many remain unaware of their rights and responsibilities.
In Queensland, QFVG is committed to ensuring growers understand how to use their HPAs by the end of this year. It’s a good year to dust off the paperwork as the Federal Government has decided to do a deep dive into this part of the supply chain on the back of last year’s supermarket enquiries.
Given there will be much focus on these Agreements we would suggest growers take some time in the next couple of weeks to do three things to prepare.
1. Locate your HPA and ensure it is complete, including all schedules.
2. Review your trader’s published terms of trade—these are often available online.
3. Confirm whether your trader is acting as an agent (selling on your behalf for a commission or a fee) or a merchant (purchasing your produce to resell). Understanding this distinction is vital, as no trader can act as both in the same transaction.
By taking these steps, growers can actively engage with the Code, strengthening their relationships with traders, and ensuring a fairer and more transparent industry for all.
