AUSVEG and Onions Australia have announced a strategic merger that will see the onion industry joining with AUSVEG.
The move is expected to expand AUSVEG’s representative footprint and provide it with a “stronger” voice to better advocate on behalf of vegetable, potato and onion growers.
The union, a result of “thorough” industry consultation and a “resounding” vote from Onions Australia members, signifies a “new era” for the onion sector, which is expected to benefit from increased levels of support in advocacy and industry service delivery.
Building on a ‘legacy’
AUSVEG Chair Bill Bulmer says AUSVEG recognises the legacy of the Onions Australia brand, with its “decade’s long” history of representing the Australian onion sector.
“It’s our intent to continue to recognise the dedication of those who have been instrumental in the history of Onions Australia and to build on this legacy to uplift the services and advocacy available to onion growers,” he says.
“The decision aims to maximise member benefits and promote industry-wide success for the broader vegetable, potato and onion sectors. I look forward to working more closely with the onion sector to help it achieve significant success in the future.”
Maintaining a ‘significant voice’
According to Onions Australia Chair Darren Rathjen, the merger ensures that the onion sector maintains a “significant voice” within the broader vegetable and horticulture industry and that onion growers have access to greater levels of services and expertise.
“In light of a changing industry landscape and a need to secure industry representation and advocacy for onion growers, the Onions Australia Executive Committee sought an opportunity to bolster our ability to meet the needs of the Australian onion sector,” he says.
“In response to the wishes of our industry through a formal member vote, the Executive Committee has taken the decision to merge with AUSVEG. This decision is a strategic one aimed at building a stronger future for Australia’s onion sector, ensuring that our members’ concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently by AUSVEG.
“Moreover, this merger is an affirmation of our shared commitment to the betterment of the onion industry, which shares significant similarities and overlap with the vegetable sector.”
What’s next
Transition-related activities are already underway, with operations from the Onions Australia office expected to move to the AUSVEG office by the end of this month.
Further details about the merger and transition will be communicated to Onions Australia members and onion growers in the coming weeks.