Wilmar | Kalamia Cane Growers & Kalagro

WILMAR LETTER TO GROWERS – REQUEST FOR AUTHORISATION TO RELEASE INFORMATION

We have received a number queries from growers in relation to letter recently received from Wilmar seeking permission in terms of the Privacy Act 1998 for release of information to research organisations, BPS and SRA. KCGOL has sought clarification from these organisations as to the reasons and purpose for this information to be provided. The following additional information is now provided.

BPS have indicated that this is not a new data request, they have had access to this information for a number of years, however it would appear Wilmar has undertaken a review of its privacy obligations and this letter was a recommendation outcome. Data is utilised by both BPS and SRA to assist members and provide data for extension services.

Some specific examples of how BPS uses this data follows:

Produce productivity reports for distribution to its members – BPS split variety x soil type x crop class x productivity group and provide this to its members. Many members also request their position within the group (ie: where they stand in terms of CCS, tonnes cane and tonnes sugar/ha, $returns/ha) – so BPS produce a grower report that has no identification for general distribution to that productivity group.