March 1, 2024
Agricultural levy payers and industry bodies have been invited to provide feedback on draft regulations and rules which aim to simplify levy legislation.
Last year, the Federal Government introduced six bills to make levies legislation simpler and more consistent.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is now consulting on the draft regulations and rules that sit under the Bills.
Deputy Secretary Matt Lowe said the proposed legislation would make clearer how levies were imposed, collected and paid out.
“Agricultural levies are established at the request of an industry and invested in activities – like research and development – that will strengthen the industry,” Mr Lowe said.
“Over time, the legislative framework has grown more and more complicated. There are currently more than 110 levies and charges on over 70 commodities across the agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sector.
“All in, they raise around $600 million every year.
“The proposed legislation will make it easier for people to understand and navigate levies and charges.
“We have consulted with levy payers and the industry to understand what needs to be done to improve the legislation. They provided their feedback on the draft Bills and now we want to hear what they think of the draft regulations and rules.
“It’s important that legislation supporting the levy system is clear and simple, so everyone knows who pays and where the money is going.
“What these reforms won’t do is change how levies are collected, who receives them and what they are used for.
“I encourage anyone with an interest in the legislation to take the time to read over the draft regulations and provide feedback.”
- External link: Have Your Say
