Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has highlighted lessons for Australia in the European Union’s (EU) prioritisation of livestock industries, recognising the role they play in underpinning nutritional food security, regional communities and economic resilience.
The EU last week launched its new Livestock Strategy, which reflects a growing international recognition that livestock industries are essential to food security, regional communities and economic resilience.
ADF President Ben Bennett said the strategy struck an important balance between sustainability and farm viability.
“It’s encouraging to see one of the world’s largest economic blocs revert from the recent pattern of treating livestock production as primarily an emissions problem to a recognition that it is a strategic asset that underpins food security, regional jobs and economic resilience,” Mr Bennett said.
“Profitable farming businesses are the foundation of sustainable agriculture. Farmers can only continue investing in animal welfare, environmental stewardship and productivity improvements if their businesses remain valued and viable.”
The EU strategy focuses on five priorities that support farmers through innovation, animal health, climate resilience, risk management and competitiveness, while maintaining high standards for sustainability, animal welfare and traceability. The priorities are:
- A resilient livestock sector prepared for crisis
- A competitive livestock sector – in the EU and globally
- A sustainable livestock sector
- A livestock sector fit for all farms and regions
- Excellence in livestock production
It also places renewed emphasis on food security and strengthening domestic agricultural production and communities.
Mr Bennett said many of the themes echoed ADF’s own advocacy priorities.
“The geopolitical roller coaster of recent years has highlighted the importance of resilient domestic food production and strong regional industries,” Mr Bennett said.
“The strategy reinforces ADF’s longstanding position that productive, profitable and sustainable livestock industries are fundamental to delivering food security, regional jobs and long-term environmental outcomes.
“The Federal Government needs to take a good hard look at what the EU has done and commit to protecting Australia’s own livestock industries and farming communities, as well as ensuring the longevity of our world-class dairy industry.
Mr Bennett said the strategy also highlighted the need for Australia to remain competitive in international markets. “Consumers and governments are continuing to demand higher standards across food production systems,” he said. “Australian dairy farmers are well placed to meet those expectations, but we must have the Federal Government investment and policy to continue improving our productivity, sustainability and innovation to remain globally competitive.”