Following three years of consultation with industry, the members of Australian Citrus Growers (ACG) have voted well over the required 75pc minimum in support of the recommendation to establish a new peak body.

The vote took place during the Australian Citrus Industry Conference currently being held in Griffith this week.

ACG president Mark Chown says the success of the vote shows that Australia's citrus growers are ready to embrace a new representative model where they can have direct involvement in their peak body.

"The vote today was a critical step forward to ensuring that the Australian citrus industry adopts a more commercial approach while involving growers and maximising their investment and returns," Mr Chown said.

"Citrus Australia will be a grower owned and directed organisation representing the interests of growers on a regional, national and international front.

"Its streamlined approach to membership means Citrus Australia will be able to work more efficiently and effectively on behalf of growers and better utilise resources."

It is proposed that Citrus Australia Ltd will be officially launched and commence operation on November 1.

It will initially operate from ACG's Mildura offices.

The seven inaugural directors of Citrus Australia are: Tania Chapman, Kevin Cock, Greg Dhnaram, Kelly Jones, Michael McMahon, Kevin Parr and Michele Phillips.

* Citrus growers are now able to apply to join the new organisation by completing the form available on the ACG website, www.australiancitrusgrowers.com

* More reports in the next edition of Good Fruit & Vegetables magazine.