WA's potato industry set for change

Wednesday, 7 September 2016
 

• Marketing of Potatoes Act 1946 and Marketing of Potatoes Regulations 1987 repealed
• Win-win situation for both potato industry and consumers 

The Liberal National Government has deregulated Western Australia's potato industry ending a 70-year restriction on market competition and consumer choice.

The Marketing of Potatoes Amendment and Repeal Bill 2016 passed through State Parliament, fulfilling the Government's commitment to economic reform and reducing red tape in the industry.

Agriculture and Food Minister Dean Nalder said deregulation of WA's potato industry was a win-win for the agricultural sector and consumers.

"The State Government has worked with the industry and growers to support this transition and position WA's ware potato industry for future growth," the Minister said.

"Deregulation is all about providing growers with greater choice and flexibility to pursue a wider range of markets and value-adding opportunities.

"There is also an additional benefit to consumers who will now have access to a wider choice of potatoes."

Industry deregulation will involve winding up the Potato Marketing Corporation of Western Australia by the end of 2016, and the delivery of a $14 million grower adjustment package including a $2 million industry development plan made possible through Royalties for Regions funding.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the industry adjustment package would benefit all growers whether they chose to remain in or exited the industry.

"Payments will enable eligible growers to position their businesses for success in the deregulated market or to transition to other forms of agriculture, ensuring prime land is still used for agricultural production," the Minister said.

"It will be weighted towards small and medium-sized growers, and is likely to be reinvested into growers' business and rural communities."

The $2 million industry development plan will be administered by the Potato Growers Association to support growers in areas such as research and development, marketing and establishing new markets.

Fact File

• WA was the only regulated potato industry remaining in Australia