As a grower in the banana industry, do you want to find out how the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct can protect you? 

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed new Federal Government funding that will help fruit, vegetable and mushroom suppliers better understand and enforce their rights under the mandatory Food and Grocery Code of Conduct. 

The funding will support the delivery of free training programs for suppliers across Australia, providing practical guidance on negotiating with major supermarkets, understanding contractual obligations and achieving fairer commercial outcomes. The initiative is designed to strengthen suppliers’ confidence when dealing with large grocery retailers and help create a more balanced marketplace.  

NFF Horticulture Council Executive Officer Richard Shannon said the investment was an important step towards levelling the playing field for fresh produce suppliers, particularly smaller businesses that often face challenges when negotiating with larger supermarket chains.  

The Know Your Grocery Code program forms part of the Australian Government’s broader efforts to address market power imbalances in the grocery sector. A total of $2 million has been allocated over three years to support industry associations in developing and delivering the training nationally.  

Training is expected to be available from the second half of 2026 through a combination of online and face-to-face workshops, ensuring suppliers in metropolitan, regional and rural areas can access the program.  

Industry leaders say the initiative will help suppliers gain a stronger understanding of their rights under the Code, improve negotiation outcomes and contribute to a fairer and more transparent fresh produce supply chain.  

Want to find out more: 

You can read further of the media release from NFF here. 

About the Horticulture Council 
The Council is the recognised peak body for forming policy and advocating on behalf of the national horticulture industry. Established in 2017, it now comprises 19 national commodity and state-based horticulture bodies including ABGC.