CITRUS growers and exporters are demanding the repayment of up to $500,000 in fees paid to the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service this year.
The overpayments resulted from the Federal Government's decision to axe a 40 per cent subsidy for AQIS export certification, which AQIS implemented on July 1.
The rebate was restored in mid-September - after the Senate threatened to disallow the Government's decision - and the Government announced last week that it would continue the rebate for another two years.
Citrus Australia chief executive officer Judith Damiani said special consideration was needed for citrus exporters and growers who paid the full AQIS fees during the peak export season, from July to September.
Ms Damiani said the industry had overpaid AQIS about $500,000.
"It is wrong that the citrus industry is penalised for its export effort," she said.
"This is particularly so during tough conditions from the high exchange rate, increased competition from low cost countries, the global financial crisis and low water allocations."
A federal Department of Agriculture spokeswoman said the Government was considering the issue of repayment.
But regardless of the outcome, the rebates began as of yesterday.
Citrus growers are eligible for a refund of 50 cents per tonne on contributions made to the now defunct Australian Citrus Growers organisation, between November last year and September 30.
Claims must be made in writing on or before December 31.
Any unclaimed funds will be applied to an industry project.
- For enquiries about the refund, phone (08) 8389 8815.
