The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has engaged Mr Chris Leptos AO to lead an independent review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct and is encouraging feedback from stakeholders across the horticulture sector.

The Horticulture Code helps ensure fair and transparent trading between growers and traders of unprocessed fruit, nuts and herbs and plays an important role in improving transparency, supporting commercial trade, and providing access to dispute-resolution processes.

Since the last independent review in 2015, the horticulture industry has continued to grow and evolve. With the Code due to sunset in April 2027, now is the time to assess whether it continues to meet industry needs and supports a modern and changing trading environment.

The review will gather insights on:

• how well the Code works in practice
• whether the Code remains clear and fit-for-purpose
• opportunities to improve outcomes for growers and traders.

Your insights will help to inform how horticulture trading operates in the future, from farm businesses to fresh produce buyers and consumers.

The consultation closes on 6 March 2026.