Proposed Changes to Organic Labelling in Australia Seek to Provide Clarity and Consumer Protection

In an effort to bring clarity to the organic market in Australia, some producers are pushing for changes to how organic products are labelled. Currently, while Australia has strict laws for exporting organic goods, there are no specific certification standards required for organic produce sold domestically. A Senate committee is reviewing the National Organic Standard Bill, proposed by Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie, which intends to implement regulations governing the organic market across the nation.

Tammie Phillips, a certified organic business owner in Sydney, noted that the current lack of regulation has resulted in an uneven playing field among organic producers, allowing less scrupulous operations to mislead consumers. Phillips argues that proper regulation is essential to curb fraudulent practices and simplify shopping for consumers looking for certified organic options. Similarly, Shane Eldridge, a certified organic vegetable grower from South Australia, believes that establishing a national standard would enhance transparency for consumers and align the practices of producers.

According to Jackie Brian, chief executive of Australian Organic Limited, the absence of mandatory organic certification for domestic products currently poses a risk, as it allows dishonest producers to label their products as organic without ensuring all ingredients meet those standards. With many countries relying on verified organic standards, Brian emphasized the potential for significant export opportunities if Australia adopts the proposed regulations. However, she highlighted that the complicated export process for organic produce has made it difficult for farmers to navigate the requirements of different countries.

The former Agriculture Minister Murray Watt previously chose not to pursue regulation, citing cost-benefit analyses that indicated the financial implications could outweigh the benefits. Concerns were raised about the potential burden on smaller producers should a mandatory standard be imposed. However, a majority of industry submissions to the current inquiry support the establishment of a national organic standard.

Federal Agricultural Minister Julie Collins criticized the previous government for not implementing a national standard during their tenure, leading to strained international trade relationships. While the government has yet to take a definitive stance on the proposed regulations, Minister Collins stated that it will closely review the findings of the Senate inquiry before making any decisions.