13 August 2008
DAFF08/101B

Information sessions will be held across Queensland from 18 August to help growers achieve maximum benefit from the new wheat marketing system.

The Rudd Government, in partnership with AgForce, is running seven free sessions across Queensland to explain the reforms that took effect on 1 July.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Tony Burke today urged growers to attend the sessions to seek expert advice about the changes that give producers the right to choose who can export their wheat, for the first time in 60 years.

“The Rudd Government’s overhaul of bulk wheat export marketing is a major economic reform that will provide many new opportunities for growers,” Mr Burke said.

“We want growers to capitalise on these opportunities.

“The information sessions will explain how the new system works. Expert presenters will also discuss a range of marketing and business management strategies such as the timing of wheat sales and how to choose and build a relationship with the right buyer.”

Free information sessions will also be held in NSW, Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria throughout August and September at a range of locations.

The information sessions are part of a $9.3 million, three-year package to assist with the transition to a competitive export wheat marketing system, including funding of technical market support grants and the publication of market data.

Queensland information sessions: