The DLP opposes the setting of domestic agricultural policy according to international trade agreements and will protect Australian farmers from the consequences of those agreements.
Citrus Policy
We will put an immediate ban on Brazilian concentrate.
We will also put a ban on any product coming from any nation that uses levels of chemical or any chemical that is disallowed in our own Australian production. E.g Endosulphans etc.
To reverse the current situation of anti-dumping laws, the onus of proof should be placed upon the overseas supplier/nation to prove that they are not dumping.
In the case of juice , there will have to be a minimum of 30% Australian product. This applies to the raw material. It does not extend to enable the incorporation of packaging etc.
There should be truth in labeling laws. This will go to the accurate stating of origin vs packaging etc.
Company tax will be paid on 50% of all capital and equipment purchases for the next 5 years. This effectively reduces the company tax to half for this portion of the liability.
Company tax will be deferred for 12 months which will restore a positive cash flow for the industry .
Selective tariffs will be introduced to protect the industry from overseas predatory behavior. This will be introduced with consultation with the grower bodies.
We will look at including up line sections of the industry to be included in this policy to enable the full benefit to the entire sector.
When this model and policy is introduced it then has the potential and will be introduced to ALL horticultural sectors which will then revitalize and enshrine the future viability of our food production industry.