March 27, 2023

Australian cattle groups reach mediated settlement

Legal action launched by Cattle Producers Australia Limited (CPA) against newly-formed peak industry group Cattle Australia has been resolved in mediation, ABC Australia reported.

CPA argued the constitution of the group, which aimed to unite producers of grass-fed cattle under one national body, was flawed, undemocratic, and lacked a secure funding plan.

The challenge was taken to the Supreme Court of Queensland but has now been withdrawn, and both organisations are reportedly working towards the same goal.

Ernie Camp, CPA chairman, said they wanted a strong, democratic group that could represent everyone in the industry, from small producers to multi-national corporations.

Once there is more certainty, he said that CPA members would be transferred to Cattle Australia.

While the full details of the agreement have not been released, Camp said that both groups are committed to moving the industry forward, and he hopes to avoid any ill feelings between them.

Garry Edwards, deputy chairman of Cattle Australia, said that the settlement is a significant step towards unity for the peak body and that they have taken feedback from CPA and committed to an early review of the Policy Advisory Council (PAC) component of the constitution.

Edwards said that this review would give all Cattle Australia members surety that they would follow through on the process of delivering national representation.

-      ABC Australia