Australian Dairy Farmers, alongside six state-based dairy organisations, say rising production costs are placing unsustainable pressure on farmers, while retail milk prices remain largely unchanged.
Fuel, fertiliser, labour and seasonal conditions are all driving up costs, yet many farmers remain unable to recover these increases through the supply chain.
The groups argue that while recent support initiatives from some companies are welcome, they are often limited in scope or temporary, and fail to provide the certainty farmers need.
They are calling for transparent retail price increases that are guaranteed to flow through processors and deliver real returns at the farm gate.
ADF president Ben Bennett said the price for consumers did not match the costs that farmers were facing.
“Australian consumers currently enjoy some of the cheapest fresh milk in the developed world, but our farmers are facing some of the highest production costs,” Mr Bennett said.
Farming leaders stress that maintaining a viable domestic dairy sector is essential to Australia’s food security.
They are seeking a retail price increase of about 30 cents per litre, stronger enforcement of the Dairy Code of Conduct and pricing structures that support long-term sustainability.
“Milk is an essential, nutrient-rich food used every day by Australian families,” Mr Bennett said.
“Fair pricing today is what will ensure Australian dairy remains on Australian tables tomorrow.”
