Overview

The Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989 was enacted by the Parliament of Australia to provide a framework for research and development funding within primary industries, including the cotton and grains sectors. This legislation was introduced to address the need for dedicated funding to support innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in these industries, ensuring their ongoing viability and competitiveness. In line with the policy objective of fostering research and development activities, the Act facilitates the determination of the Gross Value of Production (GVP) for specific industries, which in turn dictates the allocation of funds for research initiatives. The revocation of a previous GVP determination and the establishment of a new figure for the 2013-14 financial year, as evidenced in the gazette, reflects the ongoing commitment to adapt and support the evolving needs of these critical sectors within the Australian economy.

Scope and Application

This legislation, identified as C2014G01304 (Gazette), pertains to the determination of the Gross Value of Production (GVP) for the cotton and grains industries in Australia for the 2013-14 financial year. The Act revokes the previous GVP determination made on 23 July 2014 and sets new figures for the GVP payable for research and development activities within these industries. The new GVP for the cotton industry is set at $2,381,831,888, while for the grains industry, it is $13,717,012,255. This determination applies to the relevant industries and is made under the authority of the Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989. The legislation also indicates that it extends to the Commonwealth level, reflecting its jurisdiction across Australia. No exclusions, exemptions, or specific thresholds are detailed in the text, but it is likely that the Act extends or restricts application through subordinate instruments as needed to ensure the proper allocation of funds for research and development within these sectors.

Key Provisions

The legislation (C2014G01304) pertains to the determination of the Gross Value of Production (GVP) for the Cotton and Grains industries for the financial year 2013-14. According to section 143A of the Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989, Matthew Koval, as a delegate of the Minister for Agriculture, has revoked the previous GVP determination made on 23 July 2014 and has newly determined the GVP for both industries (section 32(1A)). For the Cotton Industry, the GVP is set at $2,381,831,888 and for the Grains Industry, it is set at $13,717,012,255. These figures will be used for funding research and development activities within these industries. The Act imposes specific obligations on the Cotton and Grains industries, requiring them to adhere to the newly determined GVP figures. These figures are crucial as they determine the financial contributions each industry must make towards research and development initiatives. The determination by the delegate of the Minister ensures that these contributions are based on the most accurate and current data available, which is essential for the effective allocation of funds for industry-specific research and development. Failure to comply with the provisions of this Act may lead to significant consequences. While the specific penalties are not detailed in the text, breaches of the Primary Industries Research and Development Act 1989 generally carry substantial penalties. The seriousness of the offence, the extent of non-compliance, and any associated harm can influence the penalties imposed. In some cases, civil or criminal proceedings could be initiated against the non-compliant party, resulting in fines or other legal repercussions. It is important for the industries governed by this Act to understand and meet their obligations to avoid such consequences.