Initial feedback from industry and interested stakeholders has indicated that there is strong interest in tiered accreditation and fee models. More information about what such options might look like is provided below.
Berry producers who solely produce berries
Berry producers who solely produce berries only need to comply with the PPP Standard 4.2.7 (Berries) and notify NRE Tas of their compliance with the Standard.
There is no cost associated with this. NRE Tas has a dedicated form for berry producers to fill out and an officer will assist with providing further details.
Transition period for the new regulations
There will be a 12-month transition period after the new regulations start. The transition period will focus on:
- education
- helping producers comply with the changes
- recognising existing industry schemes which enable businesses to demonstrate compliance with the standards.
Tiered accreditation model
A tiered accreditation model will be developed following evaluation of industry submissions once the consultation closes.
Tiered accreditation in primary produce safety means a system where regulatory requirements vary based on the size or risk level of a primary production business.
Instead of applying uniform standards to all producers, a tiered system will allow lower-risk or smaller producers to meet simpler, less costly requirements
We are seeking feedback in this current consultation phase to enable the development of an effective tiered system that manages potential primary produce safety risks but accommodates scales of commercial horticulture production operating in Tasmania.
Some submissions to date have provided details of the scale, structure and supply chain for their operation. These insights are extremely valuable for government to ensure the right balance between management of primary produce safety risk and regulatory requirements placed on producers.
Feedback sought on tiered accreditation model
Below are some areas to consider when submitting your feedback.
Should tiering risk management measures be based upon:
- the size of cultivated production area
- the scale (volume output) of the operation
- the supply chain reach
- other considerations not indicated above (please provide details).
Tiered structure - examples
Example models are offered as a starting point for discussion in any feedback submissions.
Guidance material
The Implementation Working Group for Horticulture (Berries, Leafy Vegetables and Melons) has developed documents to help Australian producers to comply with the new PPP standards:
Guideline Notification Template for Berries (PDF 519Kb)
Guideline Food Safety Management Statement for Leafy Vegetables (PDF 910Kb)
Guideline Food Safety Management Statement for Melons (PDF 919Kb)
Additional guides