A new report on the state of Australia’s dairy sector lays bare the impact of several tough years on the industry and the necessity for it to pull together in developing the Australian Dairy Plan.
The report Australian Dairy Situation Analysis provides an overview of key issues and conditions across a range of metrics including farm profitability, milk production and global competitive position
It was produced by partner organisations of the Australian Dairy Plan to inform discussions at over 20 nationwide consultation workshops in May and June.
Speaking at the launch of the report, Australian Dairy Plan Independent Chair, John Brumby AO, commented: “The report provides a snapshot of the current state of Australia’s dairy industry. While flagging many positive factors for the industry that point toward a positive future, the report also provides an honest assessment of challenges that we hope will be addressed during the course of the consultations.
“Market volatility, challenging conditions on farm and a breakdown in trust between farmers and processors have taken a toll on where the industry stood a decade ago.
“It is vital that all sides now pull together to agree a roadmap of priorities and actions, in order to reset the direction and confidence of the industry.
“In my view, the challenges we face today are bigger and more complex than the industry has faced before. If we are to write the next chapter of dairy’s story, we not only need to be honest about the issues we face, but also open to taking difficult decisions and supporting radical change if required.
“A series of over 20 nationwide consultation workshops commence next week and we are calling on everyone in dairy to get involved and get your views heard.”