New chair to lead implementation of NSW Dairy Industry Action Plan

Dairy industry champion Robert Cooper has been appointed Chair of a panel to lead the implementation of the NSW Dairy Industry Action Plan (DIAP), setting the foundations for future growth of the industry.

Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW Dugald Saunders said the Chair will play an integral role in the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting the dairy industry.

“The NSW dairy industry has been significantly impacted by the challenges of drought through to floods and everything in between, but continues to show incredible resilience in the face of such disruption,” Mr Saunders said.

“It is fitting that a leader within the dairy sector is appointed to this role, to continue the hard work industry has put in to make this plan meaningful for industry growth and renewal.

“Robert is incredibly well regarded in the industry, serving as a voice for dairy farmers on a number of industry boards, panels and committees, including the NSW Dairy Industry Advisory Panel where he worked with the former NSW Fresh Milk and Dairy advocate to develop the NSW DIAP.

“His wealth of experience will be critical in driving growth in our State’s $647 million-strong dairy industry.”

As Chair of the NSW DIAP, Robert Cooper will establish an Implementation Panel, which will be a blended membership of delivery organisations and industry stakeholders, supported by Deputy Chair Phil Ryan.

“I am honoured to be appointed to the role and look forward to working on behalf of the state’s dairy farmers,” Mr Cooper said.

“My goal is to see action on the recommendations of the NSW DIAP and work collaboratively to drive results for the whole dairy industry, especially at the farm level.”

The Panel will work with industry groups and government agencies to drive delivery of the actions outlined in the plan, while monitoring and reporting on implementation over the next two years.

The Action Plan includes 28 actions across four themes:

  • Research, Development and Extension– to boost productivity and profitability by investing in research tailored to NSW producers and needs
  • Confidence – to renew producer confidence and maintain community trust and support
  • Skills & Business Resilience – to build farmer, employee and service provider skills, focusing on business planning and operation, and risk management
  • Stronger Futures – to support tomorrow’s farmers by taking a targeted approach to critical infrastructure and addressing regulatory constraints or uncertainties

The NSW Dairy Industry Action Plan and the Government response can be found online at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/diap.

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