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Citrus Grower Fund Contribution Reduced

Friday 25 September 2009

South Australian citrus growers will pay a reduced amount of $0.65 per tonne into the Citrus Growers Fund from 1 October.

Growers were contributing an extra $0.50 to the national grower association, Australian Citrus Growers, but this was replaced by Citrus Australia Limited whose membership is by direct subscription.

Justin Ross, PIRSA General Manager Horticulture Industry Development said the reduction paves the way for growers to support Citrus Australia Limited directly.

“Our state grower organisations requested the change as part of their support to restructure the national citrus industry,” he said.

Growers are able to claim a refund for contributions made since Australian Citrus Growers ceased operation.

“From 1 October to 31 December growers will be able to reclaim $0.50 per tonne from the Fund for contributions made between 1 November 2008 and 30 September 2009,” Mr Ross explained.

“Claims for these funds must be made in writing to the Minister on or before 31 December 2009.

“Information is being sent to growers advising them how to claim their refund.

“Any unclaimed funds will be applied to an industry project that has been endorsed as a priority by the citrus industry,” he said.