Barnaby Joyce
August 29, 2017
The Federal Government is seeking feedback on proposed legislation which aims to simplify agricultural exports.
The Export Control Bill, released for public consultation last week, would consolidate export-related provisions from 17 Acts into a single Act.
Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the Federal Government was cutting red tape to improve trade, create more efficient export procedures, limit the costs of doing business, and ensure agricultural goods were not delayed for export.
Agricultural exports accounted for about $48 billion to the Australian economy in 2016‑17.
“While the existing legislation has worked well for 35 years, input to a review undertaken by the Coalition Government showed there is scope for it to be modernised to enable exporters to seize future opportunities,” Mr Joyce said.
“The new export legislation will consolidate the existing web of regulation into a single Export Control Bill and supporting delegated legislation.
“We’re aiming to make the rules for exporting easier to understand, use and comply with, while maintaining the level of regulatory oversight expected by our trading partners.”
Australian Alpaca Association president Ian Frith said the simplified export legislation would provide an important boost to producers in new and emerging industries.
“By making the rules and requirements easier to follow for new and emerging industries, such as those in the alpaca industry, will increase confidence to pursue new and potentially highly lucrative export opportunities,” Mr Frith said.
Teys Australia spokesman John Langbridge said the legislation must be flexible and responsive to change in market access requirements.
“The legislation must enable the rapid uptake of approved emerging technologies, such as the use of robotics, x-ray, ultra sound, hyperspectral imaging, thermal imaging and bar coding, to grow and support meat exports in the future,” Mr Langbridge said.
Consultation period on the draft legislation will close on October 24.
The Federal Government aims to implement the new legislation about April 1, 2020, when much of the existing framework is due to expire.
