Please note: this is an old article
It was published in June 2013, so the information may be out-of-date.
Greater Shepparton City Council commends the federal government in announcing an official inquiry into the impacts of imported fruit on Australian producers.
"Council will definitely be taking up the opportunity to make a submission to the Productivity Commission charged with conducting the inquiry", said Mayor Houlihan. "Key to the investigation will be the evaluation of all relevant economic factors that have a bearing on the state of the food manufacturing industry, and Council is well positioned to provide data that details the economic impact of current issues faced by SPC Ardmona and the local community."
Council has been actively lobbying both levels of government in every effort to retain SPC Ardmona operations in the Goulburn Valley. Last week Council CEO, Gavin Cator, met with the Victorian Deputy Leader of The Nationals and Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, the Hon Peter Walsh. Following this meeting Minister Walsh announced a $2 million allocation to fund an employment program to assist those affected by SPCA's fruit intake cuts, as well as, establishing a Strategic Stakeholders Group to help develop a road map to assist growers navigate new business opportunities.
"The recent government announcements will go a long way to assisting our region through this challenging time", suggests Mayor Houlihan. "Council will continue to work with both levels of government and SPCA in striving for a long term solution that will see SPCA operations retained in the Goulburn Valley. Our local industries and local jobs are critical to the Greater Shepparton community, our economy, identity and our future. The longevity and prosperity of SPCA is an absolute priority of Greater Shepparton City Council."
ENDS
For more information please contact:
Michael Carrafa
A/Manager Investment Attraction
P: (03) 5832 9846
E: michael.carrafa@shepparton.vic.gov.au