A forum to be hosted by the Australian Beef Association during Casino beef week will focus on issues affecting cattle producer profitability and industry representation.

ABA chief executive David Byard said processors and supermarkets had immense power over the Australian cattle market while the production sector had a very diverse and poorly funded producer organisation.

“Our forum will try and concentrate on what we can do to create a positive outcome for all industry, people should remember this is an absolute necessity.”

Mr Byard said a crucial focus of discussions will surround how to create a functional, well resourced body to look after producers interests.

“We have already seen seven recommendations made by independent Senate called by Minister who told everybody that they would have to abide by the umpire’s decision. Ironically the only one who did not take any notice was the Minister himself.”

The forum will be held at Casino on Monday, May 23. For further information visit the ABA website