Australian dairy farmer confidence has taken a serious knock since the start of 2016, with a major industry report released today revealing fewer farmers are positive about their industry than a year ago – and a likely 20 per cent drop in confidence between March and now.
Peak body Australian Dairy Farmers says this is not surprising given the unprecedented industry shock that has hit dairy farmers and their businesses.
“Our first interest, with State dairy farmer organisations, is dairy farmers’ wellbeing, and our clear intent is to ensure no dairy farmer is ever again so vulnerable to processor decisions,” Mr Basham said.
“We must better balance market volatility throughout the Australian dairy supply chain.
“The last few weeks have painfully illustrated that farmers bear more than their fair share of risk and financial fall-out from global market volatility,” he said.
“Improving equity and transparency are just some of the matters ADF is driving with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and the Federal Government.”
He said short-term, targeted assistance measures provided by State and Federal Governments were broadly positive and reflected the immediate needs of the most affected dairy farmers.
“But it is crucial that the full suite of support measures be available to farmers across all dairying regions, as processors begin the process of setting milk prices to be paid from 1 July.”
Media Contact:
Shona McPherson, Media Officer
M: 0447 161 919
E: media@australiandairyfarmers.com.au