For the first time in the Cattle Council of Australia’s history, Australian cattle producers can from today pay to become direct members of the national grassfed producer representative organisation.

As part of a restructure process aimed at making the organisation more representative of all producers across Australia, the council last year announced plans to introduce a direct membership pathway.

That channel officially opens to producers from today, meaning that for the first time, producers can become a member of the organisation for an annual fee of $110 (including GST), without having to also be a member of an existing State Farm Organisation.

Cattle Council of Australia president Andrew Ogilvie said the move allows for more Australian beef producers to have direct input into the direction of the Australian beef industry.

“Australia has a proud history of beef production,” Mr Ogilvie said.

“Australia produces some of the best, most highly regarded product in the world and it is an industry to be proud of.

“The Australian beef industry needs strong representation from those who know it best, beef producers.

“In joining as a direct member to the Cattle Council, Australian producers can take control of the industry, evoke change and ensure the best outcomes for the Australian beef industry.'

Direct Membership rights will allow producers to:

• Stand for the Cattle Council Board;
• Vote on Board elections;
• Communicate directly to Cattle Council on national policy issues;
• Receive regular updates from Cattle Council;
• Nominate to participate on Cattle Council policy sub-committees; and
• Receive members-only access to the Cattle Council interactive website.

Membership will be free for those producers already contributing to national representation through an SFO. For non-SFO members it will cost $100 + GST.

For more information on Cattle Council direct memberships and how to apply click here