Consumers and producers call for urgent reforms to tackle price gouging and unfair practices. Coalition proposes stricter measures to protect farmers and families.

The cost of living crisis continues to weigh heavily on Australian families, as farmers and suppliers accuse major supermarkets of unfair practices and price gouging. A year after

Labor appointed Dr. Craig Emerson to review the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, significant change remains elusive, and frustrations are mounting.

Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud, criticized the government’s lack of action, citing the ongoing absence of the 2023 - 24 Annual Report from the Independent Reviewer.

He highlighted that fear of retribution remains a significant barrier for suppliers, stifling complaints about supermarket practices.

“Farmers and suppliers still fear repercussions from complaints, and families are paying the price at the checkout,” Mr. Littleproud said. “Labor has wasted time and failed to implement real change, even as the cost-of-living crisis worsens.”

The Coalition has proposed a suite of reforms to address these issues, including granting the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) stronger auditing powers and establishing a Supermarket Commissioner. The Commissioner would act as a confidential channel for farmers and suppliers to report grievances without fear of retaliation.

“The Coalition’s plan will empower the ACCC to audit supermarkets anytime and introduce penalties that actually deter misconduct. This is the cultural shift our farmers and suppliers desperately need,” Mr. Littleproud added.

While Labor’s updated Food and Grocery Code of Conduct is set to take effect in April, critics argue that it is too little, too late. The Coalition plans to introduce stronger measures, such as sector-specific divestiture powers for the ACCC and courts, and on-the-spot fines of up to $2 million for non-compliance - significantly higher than Labor’s current $198,000 penalty.

Jeremy Griffith, a member of the National Farmers’ Federation Horticulture Council, testified at a Senate inquiry, emphasising the urgent need for meaningful changes to protect both consumers and producers.

“Our national fruit and vegetable industries are at risk without stronger tools to deter supermarket misconduct. Divestiture powers should be on the table to influence behavior and ensure sustainability,” Mr. Griffith said.

As the debate continues, Australian families and farmers are left grappling with rising costs and a lack of transparency in supermarket practices. The call for decisive action grows louder, with many pinning their hopes on stronger policies to deliver the relief they desperately need.