The Hodgman Liberal Government welcomes the Federal Government’s announcement today of an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) inquiry into the dairy industry.
Tasmania’s dairy farmers were hit hard when Tasmania’s two largest processors, Murray Goulburn and Fonterra, announced a significant drop in farm gate milk prices.
In May, I wrote to the chairman of the ACCC, Mr Rod Sims seeking the regulator carefully investigate to ensure that all laws and regulations were upheld.
Tasmania’s dairy industry is a pillar of Tasmanian agriculture, worth an estimated $440 million and supporting around 430 farms and 1400 jobs.
The Tasmanian Government will continue to work with Tasmanian farmers to ensure a strong future for them and the dairy sector.
I encourage all affected dairy farmers to participate in the inquiry that commences in November, and will include public and private hearings, as well as written submissions.
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
More Media Releases from the Minister for Primary Industries and Water