Outraged farmers threaten revolt after supermarket giants rake in billion-dollar profits

A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


SDC 21.png
Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways
  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
 
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A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


View attachment 38814
Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways

  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
A review into the Fruit and Grocery Code ? Excellent! Preferable would be a review into the appalling Dereliction of Duty of a scuccession of FAILED “Regulators” across the board.
WHO IS REGULATING THE REGULATORS???
Reviews,=FAILED! Royal Commissions
= FAILED,, “Recommendations “ = FAILED
CanbERROR … focus on the future of the people you are charged with representing… NOT relentless excuses for failures of government AND a silent Opposition for “the past decade” .
A Decisive and Trustworthy team in government AND opposition is but a pipe dream!😡
 
A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


View attachment 38814
Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways

  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
How can we the the lover of fresh food protest against COLES AND WOOLLIES TO SHOW OUR DISSATISFACTION IN PRICE GOUGING 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫
 
A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


View attachment 38814
Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways

  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
No matter who 8s in government they never do anything
 
A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


View attachment 38814
Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways

  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
This is disgraceful. Are we going to wait until we have no Farmers producing to act on this. They are feeling this more than even the lowly customer, because , its the Supermarkets getting rich, not just shoppers or the poor Farmer. We need them more than we need greedy Supermarkets.
 
A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


View attachment 38814
Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways

  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
We where warned about this happening in the seventies, by a Rhodes scholar and our Prime Minister Robert John Hawke, but the old she'll be rite came to the fore .
 
I remember when Coles and WW used to compete for the best price. Now they compete for the highest profits.
Higher tax for scamming companies like Coles, WW and the banks. Lower pay for politicians. They should be paid by performance and wages set by the public. After all, they do work for us.
Huge fines for price gougers.
 
Go to your local weekend food market. It might be a bit more fun walking, carrying your stuff without a trolley, paying in CASH, and having a yarn with the local farmers. Refusing to buy fruit and veg from the BIG money-hungry supermarkets is the only way to give them the message, "Lower your prices for fruit and Veg, NOW.
 
A storm is brewing amid the booming supermarket industry, with giants like Coles and Woolworths reporting profits exceeding $1 billion last year.

According to reports, the very people who supply the fresh produce that fills the shelves of these supermarkets are close to ‘walking away’.



Farmers across Australia are malcontent, accusing Australia’s supermarket giants of exploiting them through price gouging.

The situation has become so dire that some farmers are threatening to close up shop and stop supplying supermarkets altogether.


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Farmers are threatening to stop their supply to supermarkets if the price gouging does not end. Image source: Freepik.


The heart of the issue lies in the disparity between the price supermarkets pay farmers for their produce and the price at which they sell it to consumers.

The dramatic call comes as Coles and Woolworths posted over $1 billion in profits last year while farmers struggle with unsustainably low returns.

With morale at rock bottom, many growers say they are prepared to abandon their crops unless concrete steps are taken to close price gaps.



The National Farmers Federation (NFF) has taken a stand, demanding that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) be endowed with greater authority to delve into supermarket pricing practices.

David Jochinke, President of the NFF, has been vocal in his advocacy for the ACCC to be granted 'some more teeth,' enabling the watchdog to conduct investigations without waiting for formal requests.

'At the moment, the ACCC can’t force people to give them information unless the treasurer allows them to do that through an inquiry process,' he said.

'They need to have more strength and more ability to actually investigate these concerns…when we talk about the price of food, when we talk about the cost price squeeze on the average Australian and then also what is a fair price on agriculture.'

'They can kick into gear and actually get in and pop the lid on this and have a look for us because we can’t keep having to ask them to do this.'

'They need to be able to do it on their own volition.'



Nationals Leader David Littleproud also demanded an ACCC inquiry into fruit and vegetable costs as the Senate inquiry into supermarket prices—which was reportedly greenlit last month—won't go far enough.

'I previously called for an ACCC inquiry into beef and lamb, but it must also now investigate fruit and vegetables—we need to investigate the price disparity, compel CEOs to give evidence and have greater penalties for those who do the wrong thing, including not paying farmers a fair price,' Mr Littleproud said.

Ross Marsolino, a Victorian farmer, is one of many who have had enough.


He is prepared to walk away from his 80-acre zucchini crop unless he starts receiving a fair price of $2 per kilo.

'We will walk away from the whole farm this year if we have to. I have 50 workers who will have to go and find another job,' Mr Marsolino said.

'The supermarkets are buying our product for $1.80 a kilo but then retailing them for $4.99 a kilo, when in reality, our product should be selling for under $3 a kilo.'

'The more you produce, the more you lose. They (supermarkets) dictate the price, and I have no confidence in supermarkets anymore.'

This sentiment is echoed by Shaun Jackson, a melon farmer from Far North Queensland, who warned that Australia could face a food shortage if more farmers decide to stop selling to supermarkets.

'It’s not just me. We are on the precipice of losing 30 per cent of farming—which is 30 per cent of food—if we don’t fix it,' Jackson said.



Agriculture Minister Murray Watt has been urging supermarkets not to profiteer for months. 'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately,' he said.

'It’s good to see the Nationals now adding their voice to the chorus. If they had done something about it while they were in government for 10 years, we would all be better off now,' Senator Watt said.

'We’ll continue applying pressure to the big supermarkets through a senate inquiry this year.'

'In recent months, we’ve seen price reductions for some products, but more is needed.'

'Supermarket chains shouldn’t wait for these measures to wrap up. They should offer fair prices on their shelves immediately.'



The government has also launched a review into the Food and Grocery Code, aiming to increase transparency around supplier payments.

Outside of parliament, the Australian Council of Trade Unions has initiated its own inquiry into price gouging and unfair pricing practices.

It is understood that while the ACCC has the power to independently launch an investigation, it is the government’s call as to whether or not to direct the watchdog to begin the process.

And while the government supports the idea of an ACCC inquiry, it questions what an ACCC review would achieve that the Senate and Australian Council of Trade Unions won’t.
Key Takeaways

  • Farmers across the nation are accusing major supermarkets of profit-gouging on fruit and vegetables, with some threatening to stop supplying their produce.
  • Nationals Leader David Littleproud is calling for an ACCC inquiry into the price disparity between what farmers are paid and the retail prices at supermarkets.
  • A significant percentage of fruit and vegetable growers are considering leaving the industry due to low morale and profit margins.
  • The government and the Australian Council of Trade Unions are applying pressure on supermarkets for fair pricing, with a senate inquiry and a review into the Food and Grocery Code underway.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.
OMG people. It’s not rocket science. No food no jobs no supermarket!!! The government and other institutions are quick to pass on changes like interest rates and fuel prices. It seems to me that no one wants to stand up for the PRIMARY (meaning first/ beginning) farmers who have taken such a hit over the past few years. They are our first line of survival!!!!! Get it right !!!!!
 
OMG people. It’s not rocket science. No food no jobs no supermarket!!! The government and other institutions are quick to pass on changes like interest rates and fuel prices. It seems to me that no one wants to stand up for the PRIMARY (meaning first/ beginning) farmers who have taken such a hit over the past few years. They are our first line of survival!!!!! Get it right !!!!!
I'm sure the farmers sell to the fruit shop.
 
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If the public starting buying direct then they will have to listen. I for one spend around $300 at the supermarket each week, and l am a shareholder of both Coles and Woolies, but l would buy direct in a flash if the price was slightly cheaper and delivered to my door. Plenty of people would jump on board l am sure, just needs someone to organise it. Would do for meat as well, as all we get is the crap they do not want to export.
AUSTRALIA FIRST please, then the world
 
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How can we the the lover of fresh food protest against COLES AND WOOLLIES TO SHOW OUR DISSATISFACTION IN PRICE GOUGING 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫
By picketing the store and loud protests as others seem to do about other problems , I was in woollies today and noticed a lot of items I buy went up in the past week, mangos today selling for $8.90 a kl and as the farmer said zucchini were selling for $4.90kl
 
Farmers have always been poorly paid for most products compared to what the products are sold for in supermarkets, butchers etc. In the Hunter Valley we have already lost huge amounts of farming land to mines, and now to large new subdivisions that seem to be popping up everywhere. Having spent part of my childhood on farms I don’t blame the farmers for selling up when good money is offered, sure beats working 7 days a week from early mornings to after dark and still being lucky to make enough money to pay the bills, let alone being able to afford anything else.
 
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How can we the the lover of fresh food protest against COLES AND WOOLLIES TO SHOW OUR DISSATISFACTION IN PRICE GOUGING 😵‍💫😵‍💫😵‍💫
Don’t buy from the big supermarkets. Make a stand for our Aussie farmers and buy local. Those farmers should also start selling from the farm gate. I’m sure we would all like to buy the best and freshest produce available.
 

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