5 years ago
Have your say on new Export Control Bill 2019
Senator the Hon. Bridget McKenzie
The Morrison McCormack Government is ensuring farmers and exporters have access to modern, streamlined legislation that helps them get their goods into overseas markets with Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie releasing the exposure draft of the Export Control Bill 2019 today.
“The Bill shows this government’s continuing commitment to arming our exporters with fit-for-purpose export legislation,” Minister McKenzie said.
“This legislation consolidates export certification provisions that are currently scattered through about 20 Acts and 40 pieces of subordinate legislation.
“It strengthens our regulatory muscle so that the penalties courts will have available to them will match the severity of the breach.
“If we’re going to make agriculture worth $100 billion by 2030 we need to be promoting trade and modernising the systems that support our agricultural exports.
“Australia exports more than $50 billion worth of agricultural products each year—ensuring our producers can get their product into the global marketplace efficiently is a top priority.
“We are seeking submissions from agriculture exporters and farmers about the draft Bill to see how the proposed changes will better support their businesses.
“The aim of this Bill is to make the legislation easier to use while maintaining our commitment to meeting importing country requirements.
“International markets trust Australian produce will be fresh, safe and clean—we need to safeguard our reputation as a quality exporter with practical improvements like simplifying documentation and increasing transparency.
“The Australian Government is committed to farmers, exporters and those industries that support them because without exports, Australia is closed for business.”
The Bill aims to remove duplication and provide consistency in export regulation.
Interested stakeholders are invited to attend consultative sessions and to view information on the department’s website. Submissions on the Export Control Bill are open until 4 October 2019.