The Federal Court today dismissed legal action taken by Neat Domestic Pty Ltd (NEAT) against AWB over bulk export permits for durum, and awarded costs to AWB.

AWB Limited’s Chief Executive, Mr Andrew Lindberg, welcomed the outcome stating that it was a win for all wheat growers because it validated the actions of AWB (International) Limited in the permit process and the operation of the Single Desk to maximise financial returns to all wheat growers who participate in National Pools.

“It is unfortunate that this action was taken in the first place. AWB is working hard with all Australian Durum growers to ensure they receive the maximum financial advantage for their product,” said Mr Lindberg.

“We are developing a marketing strategy in conjunction with Durum growers and looking at establishing new international markets for their product to maximise their financial returns.

“The permit system is in place to ensure bulk wheat exports don’t compete with AWB Limited’s international markets to the detriment of the National Pool and therefore reducing financial returns to growers who participate in National Pools,” said Mr Lindberg.

NEAT commenced the action earlier this year in the Federal Court against the Wheat Export Authority, AWB Limited and AWB (International) Limited in relation to the refusal by AWB (International) Limited to approve the giving of bulk-export consent by the WEA to six applications by NEAT (all to export durum) between November 1999 and February 2000.

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For more information contact:

Matthew Foran, AWB Limited, Public Affairs 03 9209 2063 or 0409 313 637

Peter McBride, AWB Limited, Public Affairs 0417 662 451