HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE FUTURE OF THE SUGAR CODE

Hinchinbrook is a region where cane fields stretch from a far as the eye can see. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Submissions for the Federal Government's review of the Sugar Code of Conduct close at 5:00pm on Tuesday 16th June, with cane growers, contractors, harvesting operators, mill workers and industry organisations encouraged to share their views before the deadline.

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The review is examining whether the Sugar Code should remain unchanged, be amended, or allowed to lapse when it sunsets in 2027. Feedback gathered through the review will help inform the future direction of the code and its role within Australia's sugar industry.

Senator Susan McDonald said the review was an important opportunity for people working throughout the industry to contribute their experiences and perspectives; to protect growers from unequal bargaining power and ensure fair commercial negotiations across the sugar industry.

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“This Code was put in place for a reason and it has played a critical role in delivering certainty, transparency and fairness for cane growers,” Senator McDonald said.

“Now is the time for every grower, every harvesting group, every local cane organisation and every supporting industry body to make their voice heard.

“If regional communities stay silent, decisions will be made without the full picture of what is happening on the ground.”

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, said the review extends beyond growers and mills, with flow-on effects for many businesses and communities connected to the sugar sector.

“This is not just about growers and mills, it affects transport operators, local suppliers, engineering businesses, contractors, fuel distributors, regional retailers and entire communities that depend on a strong sugar sector.”

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“I strongly encourage every cane farmer and every supporting industry body to have their say and ensure regional Australia is heard loud and clear.”

Consultation was especially important as the industry diversified into ethanol, biofuels and value-added manufacturing opportunities.

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Industry groups including CANEGROWERS, AgForce and Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables representatives have all stressed the importance of retaining strong protections for growers and ensuring broad industry consultation.

“But that can only happen if people take the time to contribute to the review process.” Mr Willcox said.

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Federal Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce MP, said it was vital that growers and industry participants engaged in the review process.

“The sugar industry is a key economic driver across our region, supporting local jobs and businesses right throughout the supply chain,”  

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“Growers are also facing increasing pressures from rising energy costs and ongoing challenges around water access and reliability, which directly impact productivity and long-term viability. Mr Boyce said.

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“That’s why it’s so important this review gets the settings right - so growers are supported not just in negotiations, but in managing the real-world pressures affecting their operations every day.”

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It’s critical that all growers take this opportunity to share their experiences and make sure their voices are heard. Submissions close 16 June 2026, the survey can be accessed here: https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/sugar-code-review  

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