Grain operators `must improve access`

The competition watchdog has rejected proposals from three grain port operators who
were asked to improve access for grain exports.
Operators CBH, ABB and Graincorp must have their port access arrangements accepted
by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), as part of the
shake-up of the wheat export industry.
The federal government deregulated the wheat industry last year. This saw
AWB, previously the nation's single wheat export certification authority, joined by
22 other accredited wheat exporters.
The ACCC says it has conducted a review of the arrangements and has consulted with
farmers, grain exporters and port operators.
"As a result, the ACCC has issued draft decisions today that it will not accept the
access arrangements proposed by port operators CBH, ABB and Graincorp in their
current form," a statement from the watchdog says.
The proposed port access arrangements should provide "greater clarity and
transparency" for exporters, the ACCC said.
"Ensuring all wheat exporters have fair and non-discriminatory access to the ports
will underpin a competitive wheat export industry."
Each of the port operators have been provided with detailed information to help them
improve their port access for exporters, the commission said.