4Simplified outline of this instrument

4 Simplified outline of this instrument

This instrument prescribes a mandatory industry code relating to the food and grocery industry.

This Code regulates the conduct of large grocery businesses towards their suppliers, including by providing:

(a) that they must deal with suppliers lawfully and in good faith; and

(b) that certain things must be included in grocery supply agreements; and

(c) how grocery supply agreements may be varied; and

(d) when payments may be required from suppliers for certain benefits and activities; and

(e) how they must communicate any requirements, standards or quality specifications for grocery products; and

(f) protections for suppliers against retribution; and

(g) certain additional protections for suppliers who supply fresh produce.

This Code also provides for the resolution of disputes. Grocery supply agreements must provide for mediation to resolve disputes between large grocery businesses and suppliers and may provide for arbitration.

A large grocery business must appoint a Code Mediator to deal with complaints against the business, and to handle disputes between the business and suppliers.

The Minister must appoint a Code Supervisor to review activities undertaken by Code Mediators and to provide an overview of issues relating to this Code.

Large grocery businesses may be liable to a civil penalty for conduct that contravenes this Code.