May 27, 2020
Agriculture Minister David Littleproud has urged dairy farmers and milk processors to know their rights and obligations under the new mandatory Dairy Code of Conduct.
The June 1 deadline for dairy processors to publish relevant contracts on their websites is rapidly approaching.
“The Code introduced clear laws about how farmers and processors are to conduct their business relationship, to help rebalance bargaining power and improve transparency in transactions,” Minister Littleproud said.
“The June 1 requirement provides dairy processors with the opportunity to show they are supporting farmers by offering a fair milk price and new contracts that meet the requirements of the code, including by inserting clear dispute resolution processes in case disagreements occur.
“I encourage farmers to take note of the agreements once they are published, and compare the agreements offered by different processors.
“The Code is designed to introduce a level playing field into the dairy industry and now it’s up to those on the field to play fair.” Minister Littleproud said.
If a dairy farmer believes a processor hasn’t complied with their publishing obligations, or that their milk supply agreement is not compliant with the Code, they can contact the ACCC on 1300-302-021.
- External link: Fact Sheet For Dairy Farmers
