Banana Imports Fighting Fund - FAQ
A note from the chair of the Banana Imports Committee
The banana industry has a track record of uniting behind a cause – and the Banana Imports Committee is calling for your support in 2026.
As of 1 January, the Committee is voluntary contributions to the Banana Imports Fighting Fund at 0.5 cents (half a cent) per kilogram. We’ll keep this open for one year, until 31 December 2026.
In September, the Federal Government announced a review into quarantine measures to allow fresh banana imports from the Philippines into Australia.
Our position is clear: imports are unnecessary and pose an unacceptable risk to Australian growers.
Your voluntary contribution will help us execute our science-backed argument, through lobbying, targeted research, communications and more. Already our efforts are paying off, with public support from several high-profile politicians, widespread media coverage and the inclusion of a banana farming expert as part of a technical team visit to the Philippines.
We’re fortunate to be free of some of the world’s most devastating pests and diseases, and we supply more than enough bananas for our domestic market.
Why on earth would anyone consider putting Australia’s banana industry at risk?
I want to recognise that this is a request for additional funds at a time when many don’t have much to give. We have not taken the decision to put this call out lightly. But if you can support us, rest assured your contribution will go to good use in securing the future of the Australian banana industry.
Please reach out at any time if you have questions: [email protected]
Paul Inderbitzin
Chair, Banana Imports Committee
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This is a voluntary contribution of 0.5 cents per kilogram to the Banana Imports Fighting Fund. It will cease on 31 December 2026.
The voluntary contribution equates to 7.5c per 15kg carton.
This is an additional voluntary contribution, separate to ABGC membership and compulsory government levies.
You’ll need to complete this form.
Alternatively, you can download a copy of the form here and return it to [email protected]
You can either make payments directly to the Banana Imports Fighting Fund or via your agent/wholesaler.
You can make your payment either monthly or quarterly.
There is some money in the Banana Imports Fighting Fund which we have used to kick-start this campaign.
The reality is that in 2025, the costs of running a campaign of this nature will continue to build – and that’s why we’re coming to you for support now. We know this fight is crucial to the future of our local industry.
The Banana Imports Committee is responsible for the Banana Imports Fighting Fund account. Administration will be handled by ABGC, but it is not part of the ABGC budget. It functions separately.
Funds will be used for a range of purposes, including but not limited to:
- Materials to promote the ‘No Imports’ cause
- Advocacy and lobbying activities
- Research and expertise as required
Half a cent per kilogram was determined to be a fair contribution considering a number of factors , including:
- The expected amount needed to cover the campaign
- Industry participation in the voluntary contribution for the previous ‘No Imports’ fight
- Other cost pressures currently facing growers
- The importance of this fight – there is no prize for second place
The number was ultimately set by growers.
The cost of mounting an effective campaign in the current landscape is significant. The depth and breadth of work needed is not always visible publicly. Certainly, this fight will entail media outreach across all platforms (including socials), political advocacy across the country, and targeted consultation with all stakeholders.
More than that, it will draw on any expertise and research required to thoroughly execute the industry’s scientific argument that imports pose too great a risk.
As an example, the previous campaign drew on 8- 10 different experts – from pest and disease specialists through to global trade experts and legal advisors.
While we can’t reveal details of who is contributing, we can say that a number of growers are already on board and the number is growing. And at the end of the day – every contribution matters. Fighting this will not be cheap, and funds will allow the committee to run a visible campaign and bring top-notch expertise on board to back industry. There’s no second chance here.
The short answer is yes. At this time, you may see more about the voluntary contribution from growers – this is because we want to raise awareness and give everyone an opportunity to get on board. The approach to other businesses will be targeted and ongoing.
If you run a business that is interested in supporting the BIFF, or know of one, please reach out to [email protected]
The Banana Imports Committee was formed to counter the threat of banana imports from the Philippines. It was formed prior to the last campaign (early 2000s) and has continued to work in the background to ensure industry was best-placed should the issue arise again – and of course, it now has.
It works alongside the Australian Banana Growers’ Council but is an entity in its own right.
Essentially, this dedicated committee exists only through the support of growers, industry partners and the ABGC. That’s why support of the Banana Imports Fighting Fund is crucial. It allows for the committee, and other relevant experts, to invest in the future of the Australian banana industry.
The BIC executive form the core group of decision makers but also draw on relevant subject experts, solicitors, researchers and political advisors as needed. These external parties are carefully chosen and represent leaders in their fields, to ensure the Committee can make the best possible decisions for industry.
The committee welcomes thoughts, ideas and suggestions from growers and other industry stakeholders. Reach out to [email protected]
Ultimately, the Banana Imports Committee aims to stop banana imports.
It is currently focussed on mounting the industry’s case against the potential import of bananas from the Philippines (the imports risk assessment is ongoing).
The Committee draws on science to demonstrate that the risk to Australia’s world-class biosecurity standards is simply too great. The Australian banana industry is free from many of the world’s most devastating pests and diseases – BIC exists to help industry keep it that way.
Goals:
- Raise awareness of the biosecurity risks posed by importing bananas
- Generate and coordinate support from industry, government, community and consumers
- Stand ready to provide an informed, science-backed response to the Draft Imports Risk Assessment, expected late 2026 or early 2027, on behalf of industry.
- Ensure a sustainable, profitable future for Australia’s banana growers by stopping imports.
The Committee executive are:
- Paul Inderbitzin, BIC chair Lakeland grower
- Leon Collins, ABGC chair, Tully / Lakeland grower
- Leanne Erakovic, ABGC CEO
Paul is a banana grower from Lakeland in Far North Queensland. Part of a multi-generational farming family, Paul has demonstrated a long-term commitment to improving outcomes for the banana industry while running his successful farming business.
Paul’s passion for this cause is deeply personal. Like banana farming families across the country, the risks brought on by imports threaten his family’s legacy and their livelihood in the future. Committed to fighting this cause with strategy and science, he’s got skin in the game spurring him on.
Paul’s knowledge of farming, media experience and qualifications make him a valuable and effective advocate.
A snapshot of Paul’s achievements:
- Third-generation banana grower
- 2013 Nuffield Scholar, completing his study in biosecurity and waste reduction
- Former director, Australian Banana Growers’ Council
- Former chair, Australian Banana Industry Congress
- Finalist, Charlie Nastasi Horticultural Farmer of the Year
This campaign is informed by the success of the last campaign, and the lessons learnt along the way.
However, the political, media and industry landscape is very different in 2026 to what it was some 20 years ago.
The Imports Committee has a clear but flexible strategy designed to maximise impact. There will also be plenty of opportunity for growers to get involved, via events, support and merchandise in future. ABGC and BIC will promote callouts to growers at opportune times throughout DAFF’s review process, as part of the ‘No Banana Imports’ Advocacy Strategy.