GOAT PRODUCERS URGED TO VOTE ON LEVY PROPOSAL

By Jessica Dempster

Goat producers are being urged to consider a proposed increase to the industry levy, with a vote to be held at the Meat and Livestock Australia annual general meeting in November.

The Goat Industry Council of Australia is proposing the levy increase from 37-point-7 cents to 90 cents per goat transaction, with additional funding allocated across marketing, research and development, animal health and the National Residue Survey.

GICA President John Falkenhagen says the proposal would represent the biggest change to the levy structure in almost 30 years.

He says engagement sessions have generally supported the proposal, although producer turnout at some regional meetings was lower than hoped.

GICA says producers will have another opportunity to ask questions during a live online event next Tuesday evening, with the session starting at 6.30 Adelaide time.

The levy proposal will then be put to producers at MLA's annual general meeting on November 24, with GICA encouraging all eligible producers to understand how the additional funding would be allocated before voting.