Federal leaders hear from drought-hit dairy farmers

Caption: ADF President Ben Bennett (left) with Member for Wannon Dan Tehan, dairy farmer Chris Place, Victorian Senator Bridge McKenzie and Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud. Photograph: Ben Hindmarsh

Federal MPs have visited Camperdown, Victoria, to listen to farmers and understand the challenges they face sustaining their families and communities amid the worst drought in memory.

Australian Dairy Farmers President Ben Bennett said the visit showed solidarity and respect because the MPs – David Littleproud, Bridget McKenzie and Dan Tehan – “showed up, fronted up, and didn’t shy away from the tough questions”.

“They travelled to South-West Victoria specifically to see the conditions with their own eyes and hear how farmers are shouldering exorbitant feed and operational costs,” Mr Bennett said.

“That matters when so many dairy farmers feel ignored and undervalued.”

Mr Bennett said the visit stands in contrast to the Victorian Government’s approach, calling for more open and meaningful engagement.

“In New South Wales and South Australia, we’ve seen premiers get the gumboots on and walk alongside farmers. That’s the kind of leadership that builds trust.

“Here in Victoria, we get closed-door ‘consultations’ and PR gloss.”

ADF has outlined a path forward for the Victorian Government to provide meaningful support to farmers.

“With feed prices skyrocketing and supply drying up, dairy farmers are working to increase the availability of imported stock-feed.

“Given the quantities required and the low frequency of such imports, governments can play a crucial role in underwriting shipments – simultaneously giving importers certainty, helping farmers and supporting food security.”

Mr Bennett noted that while recent rain is welcome, it is not a fix.

“Just because it rained in some parts doesn’t mean everything’s back to normal. Feed doesn’t grow overnight—especially not in winter.

“Farmers are still hauling in expensive feed every day just to keep their herds going. Some farmers have now got bills in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

ADF is urging all levels of government to step up and work together.

“Food security is at stake. This is a fragile industry under extreme pressure; the answers need to come from Parliament – not just platitudes.”