2024-08: Call for organic algae working group members

Attention
Experts in algae, aquaculture, biology, trade, and organic and bio-dynamic production practices, including scientists or other professionals with organic algae, marine plant or aquaculture experience.
 

Purpose

We are currently seeking individuals with expertise in organic and bio-dynamic algae, marine plants and aquaculture to help review Australia's National Standard for Organic and Bio-dynamic Produce.

Key points

The department and the National Standard Advisory Committee (NSAC) have agreed to establish a working group to review and finalise the official addition of algae standards to the National Standard for Organic and Bio-dynamic Produce (the National Standard).

As a technical expert, you will play a critical role in ensuring that the standards are robust, scientifically sound, and relevant to the industry and our trading partners.

If you are passionate about organics, bio-dynamics and sustainable agriculture and aquaculture and have the expertise to make a meaningful contribution to this important project, we would like to hear from you.

This is a voluntary role with a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the development of the organic and bio-dynamic export industry in Australia, while also expanding your professional network and knowledge in the field.

Your responsibilities will include developing, reviewing and providing feedback on the addition of algae standards, relevant appendices and relevant definitions to the National Standard, and identifying any areas that require improvement. You will work collaboratively with other experts within the working group to develop change recommendations.

The first meeting of the algae working group is expected to be held late August 2024 and the review time frame will depend on the depth of changes required. A general guide would be final recommendations of the working group to be provided to the department by October 2024.

If you would like to be considered for this opportunity, please provide your resume, two references and a brief statement outlining your relevant expertise and experience to OrganicExports@aff.gov.au. 

Applications close 19 August 2024.

Background

The NSAC is comprised of dedicated experts from the organic community engaged by the department to provide advice on and make recommendations on amendments, revisions, or updates to the National Standard. For more information, please see the NSAC webpage.

By accepting an appointment as a working group member, you are committing to actively participate in the working group to which you are appointed. You also agree to fulfil a number of obligations associated with participation.

This role precludes membership from:

• any persons who are leaders of an organic organisation/certifier or are key spokespersons for an organic organisation/certifier
• any member opposed to the principles of organic agriculture

For more information on the addition of algae to the National Standard, see organic notice 2024-07.

Further information

Contact OrganicExports@aff.gov.au if you have any queries.

The information provided in this advice is current at the time of writing and is intended for use as guidance only and should not be taken as definitive or exhaustive. The Commonwealth endeavours to keep information current and accurate, however, it may be subject to change without notice. Exporters are encouraged to verify these details with their importers prior to undertaking production/exports. The Commonwealth will not accept liability for any loss resulting from reliance on information contained in this notice.