VLPA Update (Issue 32)

Rain Did Come!!!

Well, some rain did eventuate towards the end of March but certainly much more is needed to get rural industries back to what we’d know as reasonable seasons. It might be a good time for the rural sector to stock up on lime supplies to be ready for a break in the weather.

Native Vegetation

Both VLPA and CMPA have received replies from DSE to submissions on the application of the Native Vegetation management framework. It is pleasing to note that DSE advised the Government is committed to reviewing how this policy is being implemented. There is evidence that inconsistent application of this policy to date is hampering expansion of mining and extractive operations in Victoria. Members planning expansions coming out of the drought might appreciate positive outcomes from the foreshadowed review.

Recycled Oil Excise

The Federal Government announced in mid 2006 that excise on recycled oil would be raised. This was likely to impact significantly on small business users, especially with the likelihood of suppliers requiring up-front payment of excise. VLPA made representations to Federal Ministers seeking relief for users such as our members. Fortunately during subsequent negotiations with one of the main suppliers to our industry re the detail of how the policy would be applied, it was determined that the excise increase would be avoidable for the immediate future at least as the product could be considered to have undergone additional processing in the recycling phase rather than pure reselling.

Security Sensitive Chemicals

The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) is auspicing a review of security sensitive chemicals with the aim of recommending control measures that will minimise the risk of security sensitive chemicals being used for unauthorised purposes, specifically terrorist acts. All chemicals of possible security concern, including industrial and agricultural chemicals are being examined as part of the review. A discussion paper is available via website www.pmc.gov.au.

The Victorian Government organised a series of consultation sessions in regional areas to provide stakeholders with an opportunity to discuss and provide feedback on the issues. VLPA Business Manager Peter McCluskey attended a session along with several VLPA members. Any outcomes are unlikely to impact on our operations significantly as storage is likely to be more secure than in farming situations.

However more use of natural soil conditioners and fertilisers may become increasingly attractive to the farming sector if regulations are tightened. Further development of options is currently underway in the bureaucracy.

Further information on the VLPA is available on the VLPA website www.vlpa.asn.au

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