ADIC welcomes Minister Watt’s call for strong, united industry

Dairy leaders have welcomed recognition from federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt on Friday (22 March) of the critical importance of the dairy industry’s contribution to Australia.

Speaking at the government-hosted National Dairy Symposium in Melbourne, Minister Watt highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting the $17 billion Australian dairy sector.

“Dairy is Australia’s third largest agricultural industry, and we will continue to do everything we can to support Australian dairy producers and processors, even when that means making tough decisions,” Minister Watt said, referencing the Government’s decision to walk away from the EU trade deal.

The symposium, which was a pledge by the Government at the last federal election, tackled issues facing the industry, including productivity and growth, and sustainability and climate.

ADIC Chair Ben Bennett said the industry was heartened by the Minister’s support. “Statistics show dairy is a product of choice for Australian consumers, and indeed for many international markets,” Mr Bennett said.

“Every one of the industry’s current challenges presents an opportunity and on Friday, our industry made an important step to working together to drive positive change,” Mr Bennett said.

“Now, following the symposium, it’s important that government and industry chart a path forward that ensures the resilience, viability, and prosperity of Australian dairy for generations to come.”

ADIC Deputy Chair John Williams said the Minister’s announcement to commit funds to Dairy Australia to conduct workshops to explore the productivity challenge was fantastic news for an industry that is crucial to the economy and regional communities.

“We truly believe there are strong opportunities for profitable growth in the Australian dairy processing sector, with a stable domestic market and growing global demand for high quality dairy products,” Mr Williams said.

“Our goal is to secure a strong, vibrant Australian dairy industry and to keep dairy manufacturing local and we’re committed to doing everything we can to make this happen.”