the next 12-18 months, and some may not survive
July 9, 2018
The Queensland Farmers Federation (QFF) has advised pork producers to consider their finances and look for support opportunities to survive “challenging times”.
On Monday, QFF pork president John Coward said producers were currently facing a depressed pig meat market and the highest feed costs in Australia, a situation likely to continue for the next 12-18 months.
Mr Coward said Pork Queensland, supported by Australian Pork Limited and a Queensland pork farmer, recently met senior Queensland Department of Agriculture heads to discuss the industry crisis.
The department was asked to consider any opportunity to reduce producer costs to help ensure producer sustainability.
“I am aware of three (pork producers) who have left the industry and another three in dire straits,” Mr Coward said.
He said a significant number had also either reduced or stopped pig breeding,
“These are tough times.”
Mr Coward said producers should review their financial support and contact their banks, financial consultants and institutions for advice on restructuring farm debt before adverse actions were taken by feed suppliers or other services.
“The key message is: Act now!” he said.
Mr Coward suggested pork producers facing difficulties should look into the Farm Household Assistance Package, the Farm Management Grants Scheme or the Sustainability Loan Scheme.
He said the Queensland Rural Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) provided a suite of farm debt services including the Farm Debt Restructure Office (since January 1), the Farm Business Debt Mediation program and the Queensland Rural Debt Survey.
For personal and family anxieties resulting from financial impacts, producers should also consider contacting Beyond Blue (1300-224-636 or beyondblue.org.au), Country Callback (1800-543-354 or countrycallback.com.au) and Lifeline (13-11-14 or lifeline.org.au)
- External link: QRIDA website
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