Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has welcomed the official launch of Dairy Australia’s new web- based farm business management tool DairyBase.

ADF President, Noel Campbell endorsed the tool as a highly valuable resource, which will assist farmers who want to reduce on-farm costs, boost profitability and formulate annual business plans.

“DairyBase provides farmers, service providers and industry with a tool where real farm data can be used to measure performance, acknowledge successes and identify risks,” Mr Campbell said.

“Stopping to take stock is essential for good business management and this tool provides a practical, innovative method to delivering more resilient and sustainably profitable farms.”

Used in conjunction with other industry resources including the Australian Dairy Industry Council’s Sustainable Farm Profitability Report, to be officially launched in Victoria tomorrow, DairyBase will help lift farm profitability.

To learn more about DairyBase go to www.dairyaustralia.com.au

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Australia’s peak dairy farmer body has welcomed an industry assistance package outlined this morning by Federal Agriculture Minister, Barnaby Joyce.

The dairy industry’s peak farmer body, Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF), has consolidated its leadership around a new board structure in response to what it says are unprecedented challenges resulting from the dairy industry shock.

Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has welcomed the 2015-2016 Federal Budget’s delivery on some important priorities for the dairy industry, as a positive preface to the release of the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper.

“We are pleased that the Government has delivered on some key priorities for the dairy industry, while also honouring commitments to support drought affected farmers,” ADF President, Noel Campbell said.

“The moderate additional funding provided to our industry recognises the need to invest in dairy so it may grow and prosper and deliver tangible benefits to the Australian economy.”

“We hope that this is just the tip of the iceberg, and that the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper will see greater investment for the Australian dairy industry.”

Relevant highlights for dairy in the budget include:

• Tax breaks for small businesses with an annual turnover under $2 million, which will apply to the vast majority of dairy farm businesses across Australia.
• Drought specific measures that will allow farmers to accelerate depreciation for spending on water, fodder storage and fencing, which will encourage investment and improve cash flow on farm.
• Extension of the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme from 1 January 2016 to include a subsidy at a flat rate of $700 per twenty-foot equivalent unit for exports.
• $25 million to help Australian producers access the benefits of free trade agreements, an initiative called for by the NFF; and
• $83 million additional resources allocated to the Drought Package including Rural Financial Counsellors, regional infrastructure projects and mental health programs.

ADF will continue to work with the Government to maximise the benefits of these Budget allocations, as well as to advocate for further direction and clarity on future policy and investment essential to dairy’s long-term sustainability.

To view the Australian Dairy Industry Council’s submission to the Agricultural Competitiveness Green Paper click here.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has welcomed the Federal Government’s attention on energy issues and their objectives to keep prices down in the Energy White Paper, as well as to increase energy productivity and investment in a strong energy sector.

However, ADF is disappointed the White Paper has failed to deliver for Australia’s important rural industries and communities.

ADF President, Noel Campbell said the White Paper provides no direct response to critical issues of reliable and efficient energy supplies in regional areas. Mr Campbell added that the White Paper proposes policies which may add significant cost to regional customers in an attempt to charge consumers actual cost of energy use.

“The priorities suggested by the Government in the White Paper disregard the dairy industry’s high power needs for milking equipment, milk storage and cooling, and milk processing procedures,” Mr Campbell said.

“The introduction of cost-reflective tariffs would distinctly disadvantage dairy farmers and manufacturers located in areas where supply costs are higher and they are unable to alter patterns of energy use to take advantage of cheaper tariffs offered at non-peak times of day.”

In addition, ADF said the proposals to increase investment in the energy sector do not include any new solutions to provide regional consumers with the same reliable supply access enjoyed in urban regions.

“The Government needs to carefully consider all initiatives to ensure there is no damage to long-term competitiveness of Australian agricultural commodities including dairy,” Mr Campbell said.

Mr Campbell noted that a national productivity plan will be developed and hopes there is still an opportunity for the Government to deliver a viable incentive program for dairy farmers and manufacturers to increase their use of energy efficient technologies.

Dairy has already embraced the use of renewable, efficient technologies on farm and in manufacturing, however, this often involves significant capital cost barriers and to continue to build the industry’s long-term sustainability Government attention and action is required.

To enable the Australian dairy industry to grow, prosper and become more sustainable in future, the Government must act to encourage downward pressure on electricity prices, increased uptake of energy efficient technologies, and improve the reliability of supply which currently causes minor processing cost impediments with intermittent failures.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Australian Dairy Farmers has welcomed the release of the Competition Policy Review Panel’s final report as crucial to creating a healthier, more competitive and successful market place for consumers, food suppliers and retailers.

ADF strongly supports the review’s recommendations for any updated competition law to include an Effects Test.

ADF will be advocating for certainty that the legal process is able to provide integrity and transparency regarding the impact of retailer actions on suppliers, and to prevent potentially damaging situations such as retailer predatory pricing in future.

ADF President, Noel Campbell called on the Federal Government to get behind the review’s recommendations to ensure a level playing field for dairy farmers in future.

“As the first review of Australia’s competition laws in over 20 years, this report is crucial in determining the Australian dairy industry’s future profitability and sustainability,” Mr Campbell said.

“We support the Panel’s recommendations to increase the focus on dealing with the current imbalance of major retailer market power. Farmers need every opportunity to improve their negotiating power for profitability and returns at the farm-gate to be achieved.”

ADF expressed disappointment that there was no meaningful consideration in the review of the role of a Mandatory Code of Conduct or the need for a Supermarket Ombudsman “with teeth” to address the issue of potential misuse of market power.

The unequal distribution of market power means that farmers are often backed into a corner when it comes to farm-gate prices, a disadvantage that is heightened due to logistical constraints in supplying perishable goods.

Mr Campbell recognised the proposed changes to collective bargaining as positive and an acknowledgement of ADF’s submission on behalf of dairy farmers.

ADF looks forward to working with both sides of Government to advance the Competition Policy Review’s recommendations, to ensure they translate into tangible outcomes for the dairy industry.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Australian Dairy Farmers’ (ADF) has welcomed the announcement of the Competition and Consumer (Industry Codes – Food and Grocery) Regulation 2015 – Supermarket Code as a positive first step toward addressing the imbalance of market power between retailers and suppliers.

ADF President, Noel Campbell was pleased to note that many aspects of the draft Mandatory Code of Conduct, which ADF in collaboration with Queensland Dairyfarmers’ Organisation began developing in 2011, have been adopted in the Prescribed Code.

The Prescribed Grocery Code has been developed by the major retailers, Coles and Woolworths, and the Australian Food and Grocery Council.

Recognising the important role the Government has played in securing this outcome, Mr Campbell said the additional protection in this area was most welcome.

“The Prescribed Code of Conduct is not perfect, but it does address several key imbalances with regard to major retailer power over suppliers,” Mr Campbell said.

“We will be watching the implementation of this Code carefully over the next three years, with a view to seek the strengthening of regulations if necessary.”

ADF has long advocated for a Code of Conduct to foster a fairer supply sector going forward, and thanked the Government for working persistently with retailers to achieve the Code.

“It is our expectation that once the Code comes into force all major retailers including Aldi, Coles, Metcash and Woolworths will sign on,” Mr Campbell said.

“We will continue to closely monitor the Codes’ effectiveness over the period to follow.”

ADF continues to work with the Government to strengthen competition policy through submission to the Harper Review of Competition Law and Policy as well as the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper with the hope that this will end unjust practices such as the $1 per litre campaign.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Falling interest rates on loans delivered under two vital Federal Government schemes will improve the long term viability of dairy farmers according to national advocacy body, Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF).

Loans delivered under the Farm Finance Concessional Loans Scheme and the Drought Concessional Loans Scheme fell to 4.34 and 3.84 per cent respectively as of 1 February 2015.

ADF President, Noel Campbell said the improved terms of both Federal Government loans would help dairy farmers reduce the cost of farm debt as well as providing cheaper finance for drought recovery on farm.

“This interest rate cut means farmers will be better placed if they want to use these Government loans,” Mr Campbell explained.

“While there are many factors beyond our control when it comes to seasonal conditions and drought, this decrease provides a better option for dairy farmers who are trying to return to full viable production as soon as possible.”

As the national voice of Australian dairy farmers, ADF has continually sought Government support to ensure viable farms have access to practical measures that will improve the industry’s longevity.

The decision by Government to lower interest rates shows confidence in Australian agriculture’s efforts to improve its long term sustainability, providing industry with the support to maintain our efforts.

The dairy industry has committed itself to continuous improvements, with a vision of becoming more prosperous, trusted and world renowned for its products’ nutrition by 2025, the value chain is working together to ensure its long-term sustainability and profitability.

Natalie Collard, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has announced she will step down from her role on 10 April 2015, after six outstanding years at the helm.

Ms Collard said she had thrived on the challenges and reaped the rewards of an exciting period for both ADF and for dairy.

“Dairy farmers are proud and passionate people, and to represent them on a national level has been an honour,” Ms Collard said.

Ms Collard said while she valued every moment of her time at ADF, she is now seeking her next career challenge.

ADF President, Noel Campbell paid homage to Ms Collard’s extraordinary leadership, and tireless dedication to Australian dairy, which has elevated the industry’s profile in both the community and Parliament.

“Natalie’s record speaks for itself. She is always striving for new ways to improve the profitability and sustainability of dairy and her proactive, innovative and considered approach has improved the quality and effectiveness of our organisation,” Mr Campbell said.

“She has fought hard for farmers on key issues such as $1 per litre milk and implemented imperative dairy policies, such as the Australian Dairy Vision and the Australian Dairy Industry Sustainability Framework.

Most recently, her strong advocacy efforts on the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement contributed to a positive outcome for dairy – one that will improve the long term sustainability of our industry.”

Recognising her outstanding leadership role toward attaining this pro-dairy deal, Ms Collard was awarded an Australian Dairy Farmers’ President’s Commendation in December 2014.

As CEO since 2009, Ms Collard has led ADF through the modernisation of its governance structure – a move that saw 50 per cent income growth leading to a positive change in the balance sheet after many years.

She also played a major role in establishing direct processor funding to the Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC), a whole-of-value chain policy and advocacy model that is the first of its kind in Australian agriculture.

In 2013 Ms Collard was recognised for her exceptional dedication and success as ADF’s CEO, awarded the Victorian Telstra Business Woman of the Year for service to Community and Government.

A firm believer in inspiring change, Ms Collard has been a strong advocate for youth in agriculture and mentor to young women in dairy, engaging with over 400 students at speaking events in 2014 alone.

Ms Collard thanked ADF, its board, staff, farmer members and industry partners for their support throughout her time at ADF.

“This is an exciting and important time for dairy,” Ms Collard said. “I would recommend anyone seeking to lead a dedicated team of individuals in an extremely worthwhile cause to take up this opportunity – to drive sustainable profitability of dairy farmers across Australia.”

Mr Campbell said that Ms Collard has gained many friends in the industry; all of whom look forward to watching her succeed in future.

The ADF Board will soon commence recruitment for a new CEO. All inquiries should be directed to the ADF Office via (03) 8621 4200.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

On the heels of Coles’ admission to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) yesterday, Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has reiterated the need for stronger competition laws that will protect suppliers against the unjust activities of major retailers.

ADF President, Noel Campbell said that Coles’ announcement was a damning indictment against the supermarket giant, whose actions and continual denial over the past four years have had significant negative impacts on suppliers and dairy farmers affected by $1 per litre milk.

“Coles has misled Australian consumers and Parliament for too long on this issue,” Mr Campbell said.

“They have finally confirmed what ADF, and others, have long said about their unsustainable $1 per litre milk campaign. This admission does nothing to rectify the damage they have inflicted upon processors and dairy farmers, who have ultimately paid for their unsustainable price cuts.”

Mr Campbell said the announcement highlighted the need for a Mandatory Code of Conduct with significant penalties and a Supermarket Ombudsman to enforce the Code.

“Coles must pay suppliers, and ultimately farmers, a fair price for their hard work. They should not be able to force the costs of unsustainable price cuts onto farmers,” he said.

ADF looks forward to the findings of the Harper Review of Competition Law and Policy, with the hope that this will foster a fairer supply sector going forward and end unjust practices such as the $1 per litre campaign.

ADF thanked the ACCC for its persistence in pursuing Coles in this matter, and said it will be watching the court proceedings closely.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Australian Dairy Farmers’ Business Members today elected three new Business Directors to the Board, Simone Jolliffe, David Basham and Tyran Jones at the second consecutive ADF Annual General Meeting.

With significant experience in the dairying business, all three Board members are exceedingly well qualified for their roles, with each bringing a unique perspective to the table.

Outgoing Board members, Chris Griffin and Peter Evans announced in September that they would retire at the end of their respective terms and therefore did not seek re-election. ADF President, Noel Campbell spoke highly of both directors.

Simone Jolliffe, who has been re-elected to the ADF Board having fulfilled a casual vacancy, has been on the board of Dairy NSW since 2010, and became Deputy Chair in 2013. Simone has a Bachelor of Rural Science, and is the current Chair of the Inland Elite Dairy Network.

As President of the South Australian Dairyfarmers’ Association since 2005, David Basham has been a lively advocate for the dairy industry over many years. David has been instrumental in the development of SADA Fresh Milk.

Tyran Jones is the current President of United Dairyfarmers of Victoria, and a committed member of the ADF National Council. A Victorian dairy farmer, Tyran is an advocate for agriculture innovation and adapting new technologies on farm.

ADF President, Noel Campbell welcomed the new additions to the Board, and thanked the outgoing directors for their service.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome our directors to the Board” Mr Campbell said. “Their vision and ideas will help ADF in its work to promote the interests and sustainable profitability of all Australian dairy farmers.”

The ADF Board is comprised of four farmer directors Noel Campbell, Simone Jolliffe, David Basham and Tyran Jones, and one independent director, Dr Anne Astin.

Media Contact:

Shona McPherson, Media Officer

M: 0447 161 919

E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au

Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) today called for Expressions of Interest from ADF farmer members asking them to become part of one of the peak body’s Policy Advisory Groups (PAGs).

Expressions of interest close on 30 January 2015 and can be accessed via the ADF website.

PAGs play a key role in setting business objectives for industry and driving policy formulation. They help to ensure dairy interests are properly represented at a domestic and international level.

Mr Noel Campbell, President of ADF, said the role of the PAGs was critical to policy formulation for the long-term future of dairy.

“We face many challenges as an industry and have always relied on the vision, passion and participation of people within dairy,” said Mr Campbell.

ADF PAGs recommend policy settings to the ADF via the National Council and also act in an advisory capacity providing feedback to Dairy Australia, state dairy farmer organisations (SDFOs) and other bodies like the National Farmers Federation and the Australian Dairy Products Federation.

“PAG members have made a great contribution to dairy over the last 70 years and we want this to continue,” Mr Campbell said.

Mr Campbell said the five PAGs including: Markets, Trade and Value Chain; People and Human Capacity; Animal Health and Welfare; Farming Systems and Herd Improvement and Natural Resources needed to be driven by farmers.

“We welcome and encourage direct involvement from dairy farmers to drive policy in the right direction,” said Mr Campbell.

PAGs are appointed by the ADF Board every year to ensure ADF business members with the right skills, talent and interest are involved.

PAGs can meet up to three times a year. There is a requirement for PAG members to attend the majority of meetings. When PAGs do meet face to face, expenses and sitting fees are covered by ADF in line with internal policy.

Background

PAG Skills and Interest

Ideally, a PAG will have members with a specific interest in that policy area and a complementary mix of skills and experience. The ADF National Council’s appointment of PAG members is based on assessment of each prospective PAG member and the likely contribution they will make to that policy area.

Generally PAGs will consist of six members including two to three National Councillors (some PAGs may be larger in order to accommodate members with specialist skills).