Overview

The Sugar Research and Development Services Act 2013 was enacted to address the need for effective research and development services to support the sugar industry, ensuring its sustainability and competitiveness. This legislation was introduced by the Australian Parliament to provide a framework that facilitates the delivery of research and development services to the sugar industry, ultimately aiming to enhance productivity and profitability. The policy objective of the Act is to ensure that the sugar industry benefits from scientifically sound and economically viable research and development initiatives. The determination of the Gross Value of Production for 2016-17, as declared by Fran Freeman, a delegate of the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, exemplifies the Act's role in providing critical industry data that informs policy and investment decisions. This determination is crucial for understanding the economic contribution of the sugar industry and guiding future research and development efforts.

Scope and Application

The Gross Value of Production for the Sugar Industry for the 2016-17 financial year, as determined under the Sugar Research and Development Services Act 2013, specifically addresses the economic contribution of the sugar cane industry to the Australian economy. The Act applies to the sugar industry, including entities engaged in the production and processing of sugar cane. This determination is significant for entities involved in the sugar cane industry, providing a benchmark for economic analysis and policy-making. The geographic scope of this legislation is national, applying across Australia and affecting all sugar cane producers and processors operating within the country. While the primary focus is on the sugar industry, it does not explicitly outline exclusions or exemptions, meaning that all relevant entities within this industry are subject to the terms set out in the Act. The application of this legislation may also extend through subordinate instruments that further define the scope and operational specifics of the sugar industry in Australia.

Key Provisions

The legislation, C2017G00768, issued under the Sugar Research and Development Services Act 2013, determines the Gross Value of Production (GVP) for the sugar industry for the 2016-17 financial year. Section 12(1) of the Act authorises a delegate of the Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources to make such a determination, and this is executed in accordance with section 7(4). The Gross Value of Production for sugar cane for the specified period has been set at $1,520,793,435. This determination is crucial as it establishes the financial baseline for funding and resource allocation within the industry, reflecting the total value of sugar cane production for that year. The Act imposes certain obligations on the parties involved, primarily ensuring the accuracy and transparency of the GVP determination. The delegate, in this case, Fran Freeman, must use reliable data and methodologies to ascertain the GVP accurately. This involves collecting and analysing data from various sources within the sugar industry to ensure the figure reflects the true economic value of sugar cane production. The Act also requires that the determination be made in a timely manner to support the planning and budgeting processes of industry stakeholders and government agencies. Failure to comply with the requirements of the Act, including the accurate determination of the GVP, could result in various civil and administrative consequences. While the specific penalties are not detailed within the text of this gazette, breaches of the Act could potentially lead to legal actions aimed at rectifying the non-compliance. Additionally, inaccurate GVP figures could affect the distribution of funds intended for research and development services, potentially leading to financial discrepancies and disputes among industry stakeholders. It is imperative that the delegate adheres to the Act's stipulations to avoid any legal repercussions and ensure the smooth functioning of the industry. The legislation underscores the importance of precise and reliable financial assessments within the sugar industry. The determination of the GVP is not merely an administrative task but a foundational element that influences funding, resource allocation, and the overall economic stability of the industry. By clearly setting the GVP, the legislation supports the strategic planning and operational efficiency of the sugar industry, ensuring that stakeholders can plan and invest with confidence in the fiscal framework provided by the Act.