Statement from the WA Government on the Marketing of Eggs Act
August 14, 2003

State Cabinet has considered the National Competition Policy (NCP) review report on the Marketing of Eggs Act and has endorsed the reports recommendation for reform.

Cabinet has approved the deregulation of the State's egg industry no later than 1 July 2007, subject to advice from the National Competition Council on the impact on the State’s NCP payments. The Government is currently awaiting a response from the NCC before finalising its decision.

The NCC's position is that the industry should be deregulated immediately, however the Government acknowledges the concerns of egg producers regarding industry stability and supply. The government is particularly concerned given the disastrous effect of deregulation on the State's dairy farmers.

The Minister said structural stability and the continued participation of growers was critical for the future of the State's egg industry. Mr Chance said arrangements for any transition to a privatised system would be developed through consultation between Government and industry. This would allow growers to restructure with minimal possible disruption.