Summerfruit Australia Ltd is pleased to announce the results of its recent board appointments, following the Annual General Meeting held in June in Echuca.
 
Three existing directors—Dean Morpeth, Frank Frappa, and Scott Dunk—have been re-elected for a second term, continuing their contributions to the leadership of the organisation. Joining the board for the first time is Rowan Little, who brings fresh perspective and industry experience.
 
The organisation also extends its sincere thanks to Scott Coupland, who has stepped down from the board after two years of dedicated service.
Dean Morpeth will continue in his role as Chairperson.  Frank Frappa and Tim Grieger will remain in their roles as Deputy Chair and Treasurer, respectively.

The 2025 stone fruit season across key global regions is marked by contrasting trends in production, pricing, and market dynamics. Weather impacts, shifting acreage, and strong demand continue to shape outcomes for producers and exporters alike.

Italy reports stable overall production but reduced yields and rising prices, especially in northern regions. Orchard removals and weather-related challenges are driving strong demand and higher prices for available volumes. Spain is experiencing firm market conditions, with high temperatures boosting consumption and prices up to 60% higher for some categories. Despite hail-related losses, production in Catalonia remains above the five-year average. Read full Fresh Plaza article 

Minimum Wage Increase

The Fair Work Commission has announced a 3.5% increase to the National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages.
The increase applies from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2025. Visit Fair Work for more information

Superannuation Increase
The super guarantee (SG) rate will increase to 12% on 1 July 2025. The 12% rate will need to be applied for all salary and wages paid to eligible workers on and after 1 July. This is even if some or all of the pay period it relates to is before 1 July. This is the final scheduled increase.. - ATO

The Board of Summerfruit Australia are pleased to announce that they have welcomed on board Carrie Starkings as their new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately.

With over 20 years’ experience in the Fresh Produce Industry, Carrie brings with her a wealth of knowledge that will elevate the industry; “I am honoured to join the Summerfruit Australia team as CEO.  I am excited for the direction Summerfruit Australia is heading.”  When asked about the future of Summerfruit Australia, she says she is “looking forward to bringing the boards vision to life and working with our wonderful growers across the country.” Read the full Summerfruit Australia Media release HERE

From 26 February 2025, eligible casuals can provide written notice to their employer to change to full-time or part-time employment under the employee choice pathway. An employer can only refuse the notice for certain reasons.

We have new templates available to help you meet the new rules.  Employees and employers can use our new templates to make or respond to a notice under the employee choice pathway.  Access new resources and learn more at Casual employees.