Dairy poll voting commences tomorrow

The poll is an opportunity for dairy farmers to determine the level of investment in the industry's future.

Dairy Australia's managing director David Nation said voting in the dairy poll is open to all levy payers.

"I encourage all dairy farmers to have a say in the future of our industry by casting their vote and by taking part in the industry-wide conversations about the needs of their region and their business," he said.

"Dairy Australia has identified four key areas where additional investment is needed.

"These four areas are labour, climate, regional services and policy development.

"The additional levy funds over the next five years, along with matching government funds and grants, will help Dairy Australia deliver tailored support for dairy farmers."

Mr Nation said this included continued excellence in research and development, ensuring the sustainability of the dairy industry, expanding markets for dairy through trade programs and accessing technology that drives on-property profit.

"The levy is reviewed at least every five years," he said.

"Last year, the Levy Poll Advisory Committee recommended a poll be conducted to determine the future level of the dairy service levy.

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"The last levy poll was held ten years ago where a lot has changed during that time for farmers, and the industry looks quite different."

Mr Nation says there are challenges, but there are also great opportunities.

"No matter what the outcome of the poll, Dairy Australia will continue to value every levy dollar, and deliver the important services that individual farmers cannot do alone for the long-term success of the industry," he said.

The four voting options, determined by the Levy Poll Advisory Committee, include the recommended 20 per cent increase in the dairy service levy.

Additional investment will deliver tangible benefits to dairy farmers in important areas for the industry- tackling labour shortages, enhancing the regional service offering to farmers, addressing high priority issues around climate and bolstering policy support.

Dairy farmers can cast their vote online or using a voting ballot returned by email, fax or regular post.

Voting will close on 31 March 2022, with results announced shortly thereafter.

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