Australia calls for higher egg research levy

Agriculture Minister Tony Burke introduced a bill on Wednesday (May 26) that seeks to increase the research and development part of the laying chickens levy between US$0.10-US$0.14.

"The government remains committed to supporting jobs in rural industries through increasing productivity and vital research and development," he said.

A document going into more detail about the draft laws found the impact of the increased levy would mainly be felt by hatcheries and egg producers. Consumers were likely to only enjoy the benefits of the change, including better quality egg products.

"In the short term, the cost of the proposed increase in levy is very low in relation to the retail price of one dozen eggs," the bill's explanatory memorandum stated. The cost of the proposed levy increase per dozen eggs will be around an additional US$0.13 from July 1, 2010.