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Dairy Directions - analysing farm systems

This project analyses the impact of changes in the operating environment on the profitability of Victorian dairy farm systems. It also investigates how farmers can deal with these changes. The project uses case study farms, input from regional stakeholders, and biophysical, economic and risk modelling.

It is an initiative of the Department of Primary Industries Victoria, Dairy Australia, Murray Dairy, GippsDairy and WestVic Dairy.

Project highlights and achievements

  • Analysis of the impact of 2002/03 drought on farm performance.
  • Analysis of the profitability of different labour saving options, such as automatic cluster removers and automatic flood irrigation.
  • Analysis of options for farms located in the high rainfall region of Gippsland and the lower rainfall region of south-west Victoria to remain profitable in the 5 to 10 year timeframe.
  • Comparison of the profitability of different feeding systems (grain fed in the dairy and hay in the paddock versus a partial mixed ration), under conditions of changing water availability.

Project fact sheets

Project Profile
Bulletin update - Feb 2012
Bulletin update Sept 2011: Irrigation re-use dams — do they pay?
Bulletin update Sept 2011: Making the ‘right’ change to your dairy farm system
Bulletin Update – March 2011
Bulletin Update – November 2010
Bulletin Update – August 2010
Automatic Irrigation
Feasibility of Automatic Cluster Removers in the Dairy 
Once a Day Milking – 2009 Milk Price Drop 
Once a Day Milking – 2009/10 Season 
Sub Surface Drip Irrigation for Grazed Pasture Production
Sub Surface Drip Irrigation for Lucerne Production

For further information contact Dr Bill Wales, DPI Ellinbank on (03) 5624 2227 or email bill.wales@dpi.vic.gov.au