Statement of Principles

Statement of Principles – from concern to change

For many years, growers told us that trading with Bunnings was challenging. Businesses of all sizes across the country were experiencing issues – but most felt they were dealing with those challenges alone.

Through GIA’s advocacy, those individual concerns were brought together into a united industry voice. We created safe ways for growers to share their experiences, ensured anonymity where needed, and took the issue into the national spotlight.

What had once been quiet, behind-the-scenes frustration became a public conversation. The industry petition attracted more than 5,500 signatures – and or grower protection video was viewed over 173,000 times – sparking widespread media coverage and bringing the issue to national decision makers.

That momentum led to groundbreaking change. The Australian Senate launched a Big Box Inquiry, and Bunnings engaged directly with growers – including a public conversation at the 2025 National Conference. In April 2025, GIA and Bunnings jointly released the Statement of Principles – the first formal agreement of its kind between a major retailer and plant producers in Australia. The Statement sets out commitments on fair trading, clearer communication and an independent complaints process.

Work is now underway to finalise the arbitration process, with an independent arbiter to be appointed soon. GIA is also preparing to support growers in understanding and using the Statement, and to gather evidence ahead of the first formal review in February 2026.

This agreement marks an important shift: growers’ concerns are no longer invisible – they are recognised, documented and supported by a process that can deliver greater commercial certainty.

➡️ Read the Statement of Principles.

What it means for you

• Written stock agreements that clearly set out expectations for supply

• Annual reviews of trading terms – with any changes made by mutual agreement

• Faster cost review decisions – formal requests responded to within 21 days

• A truly independent arbiter so concerns can be raised confidentially and safely

• A national working group with senior representatives from GIA and Bunnings to oversee implementation

Why this matters

This is more than a document – it’s a shift in power.

It recognises that greenlife growers are essential partners, not just suppliers. And it shows what united industry action – backed by strong, strategic advocacy – can achieve.

➡️ Read the Statement of Principles.