Summerfruit Australia Ltd, Albury, NSW

Summerfruit Industry Overview : Summerfruit Australia Limited (SAL) is the industry voice for the betterment of summerfruit (fresh apricots, nectarines, peaches and plums). It represents the interests of the summerfruit industry on a national and international basis. It is the body recognised by government as the peak industry body for growers of summerfruit and has responsibility for the management of the industry marketing and R&D levy expenditure. SAL works closely with other interested groups, government and supply chain partners to maximize profitability for the industry. It was formed in 1994 as Australian Fresh Stone Fruit Growers Association (AFSFGA), a federation of state organisations, and in August 2003 decided to change its corporate structure to a national company limited by guarantee. It’s leadership is democratically elected directly by growers and it has a national office based in Albury, NSW. SAL holds regular meetings with government and others to advance the industry perspective on important issues, such as market access for Australian fruit, fair access to irrigation water and protecting Australian horticulturists from the risk of exotic pest incursions. Industry research and development funds are directed through the Summerfruit Industry Advisory Committee (IAC). This committee aligns proposals with the industry developed strategic plan so that investment of grower funds gives the most beneficial results.