The dairy industry was essential to the fabric and economy of the region in which it operates according to a survey released in Melbourne.

The Social Impact Assessment conducted in partnership by Dairy Australia and the Queensland University of Technology, and supported by the Dairy Manufacturer’s Sustainability Council, is believed to be a first for an agribusiness sector in Australia.

Nearly 3000 respondents in 17 regional and rural communities across Australia took part with respondents frequently describing the industry as a ‘backbone’ of regional communities.

The survey also highlighted the economic importance of the dairy industry with more than 90 per cent of respondents describing the industry as vital to the local economy.

Dairy Australia managing director Mike Ginnivan said the study set out to address the dairy industry’s commitment to community engagement and social sustainability.

“The results clearly indicate that the dairy industry plays a crucial and valued role in maintaining vitality and viability in rural and regional communities,” he said.

Queensland University of Technology’s Laurie Buys said that employees in rural and regional areas reported greater satisfaction with their working life than the national average*.

“Respondents felt that the dairy organisation they worked for had a family friendly work culture,” Professor Buys said.

Also highlighted in the report was dairy’s effect on the environment with almost 60 per cent of residents and more than 70 per cent of employees perceiving the industry as environmentally responsible.
 
Dr Ginnivan said the findings will help Dairy Australia better understand how it impacts residents’ lives and community.

“The survey will enable the industry to make better decisions that are sensitive to community needs, values and expectations and it will ensure that decisions practices and outcomes take account of social and cultural impacts.

 “We see this project as the first step in establishing a constructive and on-going dialogue between the dairy industry, individual companies and local communities,” Dr Ginnivan said.

The survey is part of an ongoing Dairy Australia program that continues to examine the social, environmental and economic impact of dairying in society.

*World Health Organisation’s Quality of Life scale.

For more information contact Sarah Kulman on (03) 9694 3849 or 040 000 6295 or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it