There’s been a mixed reaction to Federal Agriculture minister Barnaby Joyce’s plans to convene a Melbourne symposium, to discuss solutions to the currentdairy crisis.
The head of one farmer lobby group has raised concerns it would descend into a “talkfest”, although Victoria’s Agriculture minister, Jaala Pulford, was more conciliatory.
"Any meeting that brings dairy farmers, processors and the industry together can only be a positive step,” Ms Pulford said.
"Based on the many discussions I've had with farmers, businesses and community leaders in recent months, I imagine they'll be especially keen to provide feedback to the Federal government on the concessional loans scheme, Farm Household Allowance and market transparency."
Mr Joyce wrote to Farmer Power president Chris Gleeson, after concerns were raised about reduction in farm gate prices, and a claw-back of step-ups, by Murray Goulburn (MG) and Fonterra.
Mr Joyce said the Melbourne symposium, planned for August 25, would be held after he, and Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, met with MG.
Mr Joyce said it was hoped to discuss what steps the co-operative was taking, to provide a secure, viable future, for its suppliers.
“Following that meeting, I will convene a Dairy Industry Symposium, involving dairy farmers, processors and retails, to discuss industry solutions to the problems, impacting the dairy industry,” Mr Joyce said in his letter.
Mr Joyce said the measures would build on steps, taken by the government, to create new export markets for farm produce, support farm businesses, and deliver accelerated depreciation for fencing, water and fodder storage.
“I understand price transparency is of great concern to dairy farmers,” Mr Joyce said.
He said the government had committed to examine mechanisms, including a milk price index, which would provide clearer price signals to farmers.
Mr Gleeson said it appeared Mr Joyce was offering nothing different, to what was said before the Federal election.
“It’s no good having a round table discussion, with the current industry leaders involved – the industry is in the current situation, because we don’t have strong leaders,” Mr Gleeson said.
“Unless they have total review of the industry, it will be a talk fest,” he said.
Mr Robertson said one thing the government needed to do was to make it easier for farmers to apply for concessional loans.
Mead dairy farmer Di Bowles welcomed the symposium, saying she hoped there would be input from a wide variety of speakers.
“I don’t think its his job to bail out Murray Goulburn, it’s his job to give support to farmers,” Ms Bowles said.
“But good on him for taking an interest in the diary industry, which he should.”
She called for a strong, independent chair for the symposium, appointed from outside the dairy industry.
