The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has today announced three forums in Victoria for round two of the Mandatory Code of Conduct consultation process, following strong advocacy by Victorian dairy farmers.
In round two of consultation, farmers can provide feedback on a draft Mandatory Code of Conduct and draft regulation impact statement, also released today on the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Have Your Say’ webpage (https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/dairy-code-conduct).
“If introduced, a mandatory code will impact every single Australian dairy farmer. It is critical that dairy farmers are given sufficient opportunity to learn about what is proposed and have their feedback heard,” said Mr Paul Mumford, United Dairyfarmers of Victoria President.
Victorian dairy farmers can attend the face-to-face consultation forums at the following locations:
- Warragul Reception and Conference Centre, Tuesday 29 January, 10.30am – 1.30pm
- Mercure Port of Echuca, Thursday 31 January, 11.00am – 2.00pm
- Warrnambool Golf Club, Friday 1 February, 11.00am – 2.00pm
“I encourage every dairy farmer to make the time to attend these forums. If you are not able to attend, you can still have your say online before round two closes on 15 February.
“We believe there are still regions of Victoria that are not sufficiently serviced by the number of face-to-face consultations. Considering Victoria is home to 68% of Australia’s dairy farms, consultation forums need to reflect the number of farmers in the State.
“Farmers need access to consultation forums and must then take these opportunities to contribute to the development of the mandatory code if it is to genuinely reflect the needs of farmers,” said Mr Mumford.
For more information about the proposed Mandatory Code of Conduct and the consultation process, farmers can contact the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources on 1300 044 940 or email [email protected]
Media Contacts:
Paul Mumford, UDV President, 0439 790 469
Heather Smillie, Stakeholder Media & Communications Officer, 0400 874 589