A peak body for the Australian citrus industry, Citrus Australia, could replace Australian Citrus Growers (ACG) and a number of other industry bodies if approved in a vote next month, according to The Weekly Times.

A 75 per cent approval is required for the amalgamation, which would mean savings in administration and operating costs, and more efficient use of levies and membership fees, according to a memorandum sent to growers.

ACG president Mark Chown said Citrus Australia (CA) would mean a “fresh approach” to representation targeted at improving returns for growers.

“Citrus Australia will be a grower owned and directed organisation,” Mr Chown said. “Growers can participate in CA through membership and voting rights, and through a number of national and regional committees that will advise the board.”

The vote for the new peak body will take place on 14 October and the consolidation of organisations is predicted to take about two years.