ADPF launches five-year plan to power a stronger, more resilient dairy future

The Australian Dairy Products Federation (ADPF) will officially launch its new Strategic Plan FY2026–2030 this week, setting a decisive blueprint to power the prosperity of Australian dairy.

Released at ADPF’s AGM on Thursday, the plan sets out to build competitive, secure and sustainable supply chains grounded in local manufacturing, strong communities and global credibility.

ADPF CEO Janine Waller said the plan came at a crucial moment for one of the nation’s most important food manufacturing sector.

“Australia’s dairy processors stand at the heart of our nation’s food system, transforming perishable, raw milk into high-quality, nutritious products that feed the nation and power daily life,” Ms Waller said.

“A manufacturing sector that is high-skilled, high-impact, and essential to our national resilience.”

However, she said Australia’s dairy processors were under strain from record input and compliance costs, a long-term fall in milk supply, retailer concentration, and growing import competition that was edging trusted local dairy products off the shelf.

“This plan is about action to grow raw milk supply, improve operational efficiency, and drive value, ensuring future competitiveness in domestic and international markets,” she said.

“It is about making it easy for consumers to choose our quality, affordable and nutritious, Australian dairy products.”

Under the new strategy, ADPF will focus on lifting productivity and growing the milk pool, securing a sustainable supply chain, building a future-ready workforce, expanding market access and strengthening demand for Aussie dairy, championing progressive policy reform, and enhancing industry leadership and collaboration.

“At ADPF, we see the next five years as decisive,” Ms Waller said.

“Australia can’t afford to lose the capability that turns local milk into world-class dairy foods.

“We can’t afford to watch dairy manufacturing and jobs slip offshore.

“We ask that dairy farmers, processors, retailers, consumers and government work together to ensure our industry remains a sovereign strength.

“Productive, profitable and proudly Australian.”

More: ADPF Strategic Plan

More: ADPF Chair and CEO on industry, growth and ADPF’s plan