At a time when unprecedented drought and devastating floods have dominated dairy-related headlines, top government officials have gathered in Canberra to hear the industry put into context.

This morning’s (Tues July 10) briefing, by senior dairy representatives, showed an industry finely balanced between the optimism of record high global dairy prices and the uncertainty brought about by the ongoing effects of drought.

The briefing drew on the fourth annual Dairy 2007: Situation & Outlook report, produced by Dairy Australia in collaboration with dairy leaders and analysts and featuring a major survey of the nation’s dairy farmers. It was also a chance to showcase the industry’s response to the tough times, and how it is positioning itself for the challenges ahead.

Dairy Australia managing director Mike Ginnivan said the report provided comprehensive and objective information about the dairy industry to a range of audiences including governments, farmers and suppliers.

“In these difficult times for Australia’s dairy producers it is more important than ever the industry has clear, reliable information to work from. This report is crucial to our understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the dairy industry,” Dr Ginnivan said.

He told the meeting about Dairy Australia’s strategic plan for the next five years, including its ongoing commitment to issues surrounding climate change.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry secretary Conall O’Connell said it was imperative that government continue its close working relationship with the industry.

“Dairy is rightfully regarded as one of the nation’s most significant food and export industries. Currently it is valued at about $3.3 billion at farmgate and contributes about $9.5 billion to the nation’s economy. It also plays an important role in the social fabric of rural Australia,” he said.

Dairy Australia’s Farm Productivity & Delivery manager Steve Coats outlined the industry’s responses to the drought and the serious lack of fibre resulting from by the failed 2006 spring. He also presented the thinking behind the industry’s plan for tackling the effects of climate change.

In addition, the results of a groundbreaking Queensland University of Technology study were presented showing the importance of the dairy industry to the fabric and economy of the regions in which it operates.

The Dairy 2007: Situation & Outlook report can be downloaded from the Dairy Australia website: www.dairyaustralia.com.au

ENDS

For further information, contact Sid Pickering on (03) 9694 3894, or 0418 175 611, or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it