Australian apple and pear growers say an increase in fruit imports will threaten their businesses.
The ABC reports Apple and Pear Australia is calling on the federal government to invest $A22 million in the industry over the next four years.
The organisation says relaxed import rules, including the removal of a ban on New Zealand apples, could have a negative impact on domestic production.
Apple and Pear Australia says 2500 thousand jobs could be lost if the government does not step in.
The money would be used help growers become more sustainable and globally competitive.
The Australian government lifted a 90-year ban on New Zealand apple imports last year.
