The most significant beekeeping regulatory reform in 60 years is set to be passed by state parliament, according to the Victorian Farmers’ Federation (VFF).
The Crown Land Legislation Amendment (Canadian Regional Park and Other Matters) Bill 2015 proposes significant red tape reduction reforms for beekeepers and government administration.
“If passed, these changes will ensure the security of the Victorian beekeeping industry by cutting a huge amount of red tape out of the licensing system for bee sites on crown land and reduce the burden on the public sector,” VFF Beekeepers Branch President, Ian Oakley said.
“While they are relatively minor legislative changes, to put this into context, if passed they would result in the most significant regulatory reform for beekeepers in 60 years.”
“Currently, beekeepers are required to reapply for bee site licences on crown land every six months. The previous government recognised that costs outweighed the benefits of this approach.”
“Minister for Environment Lisa Neville, has now presented to parliament the hard work of the government appointed Buzz Steering Committee, which comprised VFF members.
Mr Oakley thanked the efforts of VFF beekeepers, Gavin Jamieson and Bob McDonald in volunteering their time to pursue these significant reforms.
The proposed Bill would give beekeepers the option of yearly or ten yearly licences for sites on crown land. It would also insert clear provisions that allowed the transfer of a bee site between businesses.
“As Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford has already acknowledged, the beekeeping sector is vital to the Victorian economy. The honey industry is worth $90 million and is vital in pollination of Victoria’s cropping land.
“Successive Governments have supported these sensible and minor legislative reforms that provide significant benefits to beekeepers in Victoria. The VFF urges members of State Parliament to support the Bill’s passing without delay,” Mr Oakley said.
