QFVG Statement: ACCC Supermarkets inquiry final report
QFVG has welcomed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) final report of the supermarket inquiry, as well as the Government’s in principle support of its recommendations.
The report’s strong focus on the fresh produce industry and range of recommendations validates many of the concerns raised by Queensland’s horticulture industry over the past 12 months and that underpinned QFVG’s 2024 national campaign - We Give A Fork.
The ACCC’s support for measures that provide growers with greater certainty, clarity and transparency are welcome, as too is the call to harmonise and streamline the various auditing and compliance schemes retailers require suppliers to comply with.
QFVG also supports the ACCC’s recommendation to constrain retailers’ ability to override provisions in the Food and Grocery Code, and recommendations on supplier branding rights and retail media services, although QFVG would have preferred to see rebates abolished completely.
QFVG CEO Rachel Chambers said, “Overall, after a year of intense work, I am satisfied with the contents of the report as it has validated the concerns of Queensland growers.”
“If we think back to a year ago, when we were struggling to have growers speak out about these issues, to today having an ACCC report in front of us clearly articulating their concerns, we have come a long way. A collective thank you must go out to the growers who were brave enough to come forward and tell their story – you are the reason this has come this far.”
QFVG also welcomed the commitment of $2.9 million in funding to go to fresh produce industry associations to deliver targeted education programs.
“QFVG saw a need for negotiation skills training in 2024 and we would like to acknowledge the Queensland Government for being on the front foot; working with industry to upskill over 200 growers during the Geared up Growers Pilot Program,” Ms Chambers said.
“This collective state-wide effort aimed to build the knowledge, skills, and confidence of Queensland growers to be the most equipped negotiators in Australia.
“The Pilot was an accelerated project funded by the Queensland Government who recognised that the long-term sustainability of Queensland producers was vital for all Queenslanders.
Ms Chambers said while this was a welcome outcome, it is just the beginning of the next phase.
“While the measures recommended by the ACCC have the potential to provide growers with greater certainty and transparency, and improve their bargaining position, details still need to be fleshed out on how these will work in the real world,” Ms Chambers said.
“As we head into a Federal Election our biggest fear is that this report is forgotten. This report and its recommendations need bipartisan commitment for their considered implementation.
“And let's not forget consumers – the reason this report was commissioned was the cost of living – consumers will need to be a part of the conversations between growers and retailers to understand how the recommendations are managed. If consumers still want Australian fresh produce into the future, they also need to be invested in navigating the solution.”
