Member for Dubbo Troy Grant said that local dairy farmers are facing one of the driest periods on record, with ongoing drought conditions having an enormous impact on milk production.

“There’s no denying that dairy farmers are doing it tough right now and they’re doing everything they can to purchase fodder and water to maintain their herds,” Mr Grant said.

“Dairy farmers play a very important role in the local economy and contribute significantly to communities across the region and it is so important that we do everything we can to get them through this challenging time.

“That’s why we are appointing a Fresh Milk and Dairy Advocate to lead a dedicated Dairy Business Advisory Unit within the Department of Primary Industries, whose first priority will be to rebuild confidence across the sector by hosting a fresh milk crisis taskforce.

“We are also investing in the future of the industry by offering fully subsidised courses in the NSW Dairy Farm Training Program to support the next generation of farmers in the region.”

Mr Grant said in addition to beating the drought, it’s time that dairy farmers started to see greater returns for their products.

“We know that it cost farmers money to produce milk, yet we’re not paying enough to cover those costs and we’re continuing to see dairy farms across the state collapse,” he said.

“It’s time to end the sale of $1 a litre milk. As a state government we are doing our bit, and it’s now time for others along the dairy supply chain to step up and make real changes so that the industry survives.

“The Liberals and Nationals in Government will continue to apply pressure to those who can make the necessary changes in the industry ensure we value our dairy products properly. The best place to start is to end the sale of milk for $1 a litre.”

Committed to include: Working with the industry to develop a ‘buy local fresh milk’ marketing campaign and undertaking a targeted marketing campaign overseas using the NSW Government overseas trade office network.