Fuel & Fertiliser Disruption
Information and resources to prepare for and manage the impacts of fuel and fertiliser supply constraints caused by the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Fuel and fertiliser prices rise when global supply chains tighten. Energy costs, freight constraints and the price of natural gas all feed into nitrogen fertiliser costs. Australia imports much of its fertiliser, so local prices follow international markets closely. Disruption can be sharp and hard to predict, which makes planning and flexibility the most useful responses on-farm.
Stay informed about the latest national webinars and regional events by visiting fuel and fertiliser disruption events.
Video and audio resources
Our latest resources covering fuel and fertiliser disruption support. View all resources.
Fertiliser
How can dairy farmers reduce fertiliser costs?
Soil testing is the fastest way to cut wasted fertiliser spend. Testing shows which nutrients each paddock needs, so fertiliser targets the biggest response. Matching nitrogen rates to pasture demand lowers reliance on bought-in fertiliser. Applying at the right time and using effluent as a nutrient source reduce costs further. Where it makes agronomic sense, alternative fertiliser products can cut costs without sacrificing yield.
Pasture and feed
How can farmers protect pasture and feed on a tighter budget?
Growing more home-grown feed is the cheapest way to offset higher input costs. Strong grazing management lifts pasture use, so more of what is grown becomes milk. A monthly feed budget shows feed gaps early, which gives time to plan lower-cost options. Reducing feed wastage protects margin when bought-in feed is dear.
Budgeting
How can farmers manage cash flow during cost volatility?
A cash budget turns uncertainty into decisions. Mapping income and expenses across the season shows where pressure points fall and which costs can move. Scenario planning, testing a high-cost and a low-cost case, prepares the business for either outcome.Budgeting tools
Download the Excel file to a computer desktop or document folder and enable the macros. Refer to the instructions within the file.People
Where can farmers find wellbeing support during tough times?
Financial pressure takes a personal toll, and support is available. Talking early with family, advisers and peers eases the load and leads to clearer decisions. Dairy Australia provides resources to support farmers and teams through periods of stress and uncertainty.
Additional resources
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Common questions
Why are fertiliser prices rising in Australia?
Australia imports much of its fertiliser, so local prices track international markets. When issues like tensions in the Middle East occur, it can affect availability and price. Higher natural gas, energy and freight costs lift the price of nitrogen fertiliser in particular.
What is the cheapest way to reduce fertiliser costs on a dairy farm?
Soil testing is the best way to reduce fertiliser costs by accurately identifying which nutrients each paddock needs, so fertiliser is applied only where it will lift production, avoiding wasted spend.
How can dairy farmers cut nitrogen costs without losing pasture growth?
Matching nitrogen rates to pasture demand, applying at the right time of year, and using effluent as a nutrient source can cut costs for farmers. The Fertsmart resources on nitrogen and soil testing share strategies farmers can use to maintain this balance.
What tools does Dairy Australia provide to manage fuel and fertiliser costs?
The Nitrogen Cost & Feed Comparison Tool on Enlight, the Dairy Cash Budgeting Tool, the Feed Budgeting Tool, and a range of fertiliser, pasture and wellbeing resources give direct support during this disruption.
Videos with specific advice on pasture management, soil testing and managing fuel and feed stock are available in resources. Longer form content including educational webinars and podcasts are also available for farmers.
Where can farmers get support if cost pressure is affecting their wellbeing?
Focus on what you can control, notice what is still going well, and take one practical step at a time. You may not be able to control prices or supply, but you can control how you work with your team during tough times. Clear communication, shared problem solving, continued safety awareness and sensible prioritisation can reduce pressure and help the farm stay focused, practical and resilient.