CEO Member Update | Australian Banana Growers

Hort Innovation puts out call for two new directors

Hort Innovation, the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture, is seeking applications for two Non-Executive Director vacancies on its Board for a four-year term.In line with the company’s constitution, two of the nine sitting Directors must retire at the end of their…

PALM Scheme Compliance and Worker Exploitation in Focus

Inspector Damon Patmore from Australian Board Force (ABF) addressed members’ questions in a recent member-only online session hosted by ABGC. The session was requested by members as the next step from a recent workforce round table session in Far North Queensland (FNQ). Members acknowledged the importance of worker wellbeing and support as a foundation to a strong and…

Senate Estimates: Australia’s Banana Industry Under the Biosecurity Spotlight

In a pointed exchange at the Senate Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Legislation Committee, Senator Susan McDonald pressed representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) about the biosecurity risks associated with imports from the Philippines affecting Australia’s banana industry. While highlighting…

Members Setting the Direction: ABGC Priorities 2026 –2030 Winners

ABGC’s advocacy priorities for the next five years are now being shaped, helping guide the organisation’s future focus across advocacy, member services, and key industry initiatives. This member-only survey will play an important role in informing those industry initiatives. Stay tuned for more on this! We’re also pleased to announce that…

Pasifika Celebration 2026

The Cassowary Coast Regional Council is currently preparing its annual community event, Pasifika Celebration 2026, and banana growers are invited to sponsor the event. Celebrate the vibrant cultures, traditions and communities of the Pacific Islands at this exciting family-friendly event. Pasifika Celebration 2026 will showcase live music, cultural performances,…

ABGC’s advocacy starts on the ground

In late April, Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) CEO, Leanne Erakovic, travelled to Far North Queensland to connect directly with growers and hear firsthand about the challenges and opportunities currently impacting the industry. The visit included on-farm meetings, a workforce workshop, and informal coffee catchups with growers throughout the Cassowary Coast region.…

ABGC Members Workforce Roundtable focuses on practical solutions

Workforce challenges continue to place pressure on banana farming businesses and regional communities, particularly around workforce integrity, worker engagement and broader compliance challenges affecting the sector. In response to a request from the Cassowary Coast Banana Growers’ Association, Australian Banana Growers’ Council has been working…