The newly elected VFF UDV Policy Council met for the first time on Tuesday 14 July, bringing together councillors from across Victoria to continue the important work of representing Victorian dairy farmers.
It was a productive first meeting and an important opportunity for councillors to discuss the key issues facing our industry and establish the priorities that will guide the Policy Council’s work over the coming months.
Looking to the future
A strong focus of the discussion was the importance of rebuilding and growing VFF UDV membership. Strong membership strengthens our advocacy, increases our influence with government and industry, and ensures Victorian dairy farmers have a strong, united voice.
The Policy Council reaffirmed its support for the milk levy collection system as VFF UDV’s preferred membership mode. Members will continue to have the choice to support VFF UDV through the Victorian Farmers Federation membership options by selecting Commodity Contributor, so dairy as your nominated commodity group can receive financial support.
The current membership arrangements will remain in place for FY27 while a broader review of future membership and funding arrangements is undertaken.
Backing dairy farmers
The Council also discussed the importance of strengthening VFF UDV’s connection with dairy farmers across Victoria. As a first step, VFF UDV will hold a member engagement event in Region 9 later in August to reconnect with local dairy farmers, hear directly from farmers about the opportunities and challenges affecting their businesses and the region, and strengthen VFF UDV’s presence in the local dairy community. The event will also provide an opportunity to identify potential candidates to fill the vacant Region 9 Policy Councillor position.
Ensuring our national voice
The Policy Council also reaffirmed the importance of Victorian dairy farmers being represented at the national level through Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF). VFF UDV will be encouraging members to join ADF, with the membership process able to be facilitated through VFF UDV at no additional cost. Strengthening Victorian participation in ADF will ensure our farmers continue to have a strong voice in national dairy policy and decision-making.
Where to now?
The Policy Council also considered a number of longer-term opportunities for VFF UDV, including strengthening relationships with Dairy Australia and the Victorian Regional Development Programs, and exploring the development of a Victorian Dairy Industry Strategy. These discussions will continue over coming meetings as the Council further develops its priorities and work program.
Thank you for your continued support of VFF UDV. We look forward to working with the Policy Council and with members across Victoria as we continue to strengthen our advocacy and deliver positive outcomes for the Victorian dairy industry.