Dairying Industry Research And Promotion Levy Amendment Act 1986

Overview

The Dairying Industry Research and Promotion Levy Amendment Act 1986 was enacted to address the need for adjustments in the financial contributions levied on the dairy industry to better support research and promotional activities. This Act amends the existing Dairying Industry Research and Promotion Levy Act 1972 by increasing the levy rates on whole milk and butter fat. The amendment was introduced to ensure that sufficient funds are available to support the dairy industry's growth and development, reflecting the evolving economic landscape and the specific needs of the industry at the time. The Act was assented to on 13 May 1986 by the Queen, through the Australian Parliament, reflecting the collective legislative authority vested in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The policy objective behind the amendments is to enhance the financial resources allocated for research and promotion within the dairy sector, thereby supporting industry advancement and sustainability.

Scope and Application

The Dairying Industry Research and Promotion Levy Amendment Act 1986 amends the existing Dairying Industry Research and Promotion Levy Act 1972 by altering the rates of levies on whole milk and butter fat. This Act applies to all persons and entities involved in the dairying industry, including producers, processors, and distributors of milk and milk products within Australia. The amendments extend to the entire Commonwealth, ensuring a uniform approach across states and territories. The new rates set forth in the Act are intended to better fund research and promotion activities within the dairy industry. The Act does not specify any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds, thereby applying broadly to all relevant industry participants. Additionally, the Act may be further extended or restricted through subordinate instruments, which could provide additional clarification or implementation details.

Key Provisions

The Dairying Industry Research and Promotion Levy Amendment Act 1986 (Act) makes specific changes to the existing Dairying Industry Research and Promotion Levy Act 1972 (Principal Act). Under section 3 of the Act, the amount of the levy on whole milk is amended from 1.2 cents to 10 cents, as per the amendment to section 7 of the Principal Act. This change increases the financial contribution from the dairy industry towards research and promotion activities. Similarly, under section 4 of the Act, the amount of the levy on butter fat is increased from 30 cents to $2.50, as per the amendment to section 11 of the Principal Act. This alteration in the levy rate reflects the updated financial requirements for the industry's research and promotional efforts. The Act imposes specific obligations on entities within the dairy industry, such as dairy farmers, processors, and other relevant stakeholders. These entities are required to pay the amended levies on whole milk and butter fat as stipulated in the Act. The levies are intended to fund research and promotional activities that benefit the dairy industry as a whole. By adhering to the new levy rates, the entities ensure that they are contributing appropriately to the industry's development and sustainability. Failure to comply with the provisions of the Act may result in various consequences. Under the Principal Act, there are provisions for offences, penalties, and other consequences for non-compliance. For instance, section 18 of the Principal Act outlines penalties for non-payment of levies, which may include fines and other legal actions. The maximum penalties for such offences are stipulated in the Principal Act and may vary depending on the severity and frequency of the breach. It is essential for the entities governed by the Act to be aware of these potential consequences and to ensure compliance to avoid any legal repercussions.