DAIRY farmers, processors and representative organisations are encouraged to have their say to help shape Australia’s first mandatory dairy code in consultation in Shepparton on November 27.
Member for Murray, the Hon Damian Drum urged local farmers and stakeholders to take part and help improve contracts between farmers and processors.
“We need farmers and processors in Goulburn and Murray Valleys to have their say and make sure the code will work for them and our local region,” Mr Drum said.
“The code will aim to make contracts fairer, more transparent and enforce a dispute resolution process.
“In a report released by the Australian Food and Grocery Council earlier in the year, the Murray electorate was home to more than $2B of economic output in Dairy Product Manufacturing.
“The dairy industry is so important to us and a mandatory code can be the first step to a better industry.”
Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud said the dairy industry had come to him and requested a mandatory code of conduct.
“So let’s not waste time – let’s get on with it,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Consultations are the first step in the process, and the Department of Agriculture will be in town talking to local people about what should be in the code on November 27 at 10:30am at the Shepparton Swans Football Club rooms, 2 Quinan Parade, Shepparton.
“This isn’t the silver bullet and there’s much more to be done, but it’s a good start.”
More information about the development of the code can be found at https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/
People can register online, email dairycode@agriculture.gov.au or phone 1300 044 940.
