Apple growers face 'uphill battle'

South West apple growers are concerned for the future of their industry following the recent Federal Budget announcement that ‘‘ignored’’ their calls for help.

Apple and Pear Australia Limited was seeking $21.9 million to help growers become internationally competitive by making the transition to best practice orchard management techniques.

Donnybrook apple and pear grower Steve Dilley said it was hard to stay positive with the latest news.

Mr Dilley said it was going to be an uphill battle for growers to survive against competition from China and New Zealand after recent changes to Government policy allowed international apple imports.

‘‘It’s really tough to see a future for the apple industry,’’ he said.

‘‘The reality is overseas growers’ labour costs are a lot cheaper so they can afford to sell at a much lower rate than us.

‘‘I don’t think the Federal Government cares about the future of the industry.’’

APAL managing director Jon Durham said it was disappointing to see the Government once again ignore the plight of Australian apple growers, leaving farming jobs and the communities that relied on them particularly vulnerable.

‘‘Without additional funding from the Government the industry could face widespread job losses which would have a devastating impact on many rural communities,’’ he said.

‘‘This does not factor in additional flow-on effects of seasonal job losses.’’

APAL chairman John Lawrenson predicted ‘‘casualties’’ in the industry.

‘‘Growers are nervous. Many are already running at a loss and it’s only so long they can operate like this before they leave the industry,’’ Mr Lawrenson said.