With Australia’s dairy industry at a critical juncture, the peak body representing Australia’s dairy farmers is calling on politicians to invest in safeguarding the sector’s future.
Announcing a suite of funding priorities ahead of the election, Australian Dairy Farmers president Ben Bennett invited the Federal Government to support the industry to reinvigorate dairy production, modernise farm operations and strengthen regional dairy communities.
“Australian dairy production has declined from a peak in 2001-02 at around 11.3 billion litres, down to 8.3 billion litres in 2023-24 — a decline of 26 per cent,” Mr Bennett said.
“Over this time we’ve also seen an increase in cheap imported products.
“The Government Standing Committee into Australia’s food security in 2023 recommended that the ‘National Food Plan … develop a specific strategy for reinvigorating the Australian dairy industry, one which lifts profitability and production while addressing the economic and environmental sustainability of the industry’.
“This will ensure long-term industry prosperity, boost local economies, support regional communities, and strengthen Australia’s food security.”
ADF’s cohesive policy priorities recognise that dairy farming is more than just milk production — it provides essential nutrition, drives jobs, supports service industries, and fosters innovation through new technologies and modern workforce practices.
Mr Bennett said attracting new farmers and encouraging reinvestment in the sector will lead to greater productivity, enhanced sustainability, and stronger regional economies.
“As dairy production prospers, so do the towns, businesses, and services that rely on it,” he said.
To make this vision a reality, ADF is calling on government to invest $399 million across five key areas:
- First farm ownership and family succession support: Ensuring new and young farmers can enter and grow within the industry.
- Reinvestment in on-farm productivity and efficiency: Supporting modernisation through advanced technology and sustainability measures.
- Water security for dairy farms: Providing long-term solutions for managing scarce water resources.
- Workforce development and digital adoption: Equipping dairy operations with skilled workers and the latest farm automation technologies.
- Ongoing industry support: Strengthening the services and support farmers need to build and sustain a thriving dairy sector.
“ADF’s 2025 federal election package is about building confidence in dairy’s future — a future where reinvestment leads to prosperity, innovation drives growth, and regional communities benefit from a strong, sustainable industry,” Mr Bennett said.
“With targeted government support, dairy can continue to be a pillar of Australia’s food security and rural economy for generations to come.”
For more detail on ADF 2025 funding priorities, go to: https://australiandairyfarmers.com.au/policy-advisory-groups/2025-federal-election-policy-statement/
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