On The Land
28 June, 2025
Call for levy review
THE time is right for Australia’s beef cattle levy to be reviewed to ensure the funding system is appropriate for the modern challenges facing the industry, says Cattle Australia.
A levy of $5 per head is collected at point of sale, with these funds used for research, development and marketing initiatives by Meat and Livestock Australia. The R&D component attracts a matching Commonwealth co-contribution.
Cattle Australia chief executive Dr Chris Parker said the organisation would work with other peak industry bodies in taking a holistic view of the red meat production industry, its future needs and appropriate support from the levy system.
“There is a case to be made to improve levy arrangements, including the collection and distribution of funds, to secure the future of this vital industry,” he said.
“The first part of this review process is to get the work done on this case. There will be wide consultation on both the case for and against change, and we must, of course, meet the levy principles set out by Federal Government.
“This will not be a quick fix. We anticipate the full review process and consultation will take at least two years, but we must start now if we are to ensure that our industry stays in front of the game and maintains its position as a reliable source of safe, nutritious protein.”
The red meat supply chain employs more than 430,000 people nationwide and has a turnover of more than $81 billion per year.
