NSW Farmers backs ag minister’s comments calling out Coles over its ‘drought levy’
NSW Farmers’ Association has backed Minister Littleproud’s comments calling out the Coles ‘drought levy’ as a media stunt that will not deliver the increased funds dairy farmers need.
“The Coles drought levy on their three-litre private brand milk is a marketing ploy designed to keep the discounting of dairy products into the future and will not enhance the sustainability of the dairy industry,” NSW Farmers Dairy Chair, Erika Chesworth said.
“Dairy farmers are at breaking point, the Coles drought fund has caused more anger and anxiety for farmers. The program is a farce as there is no guarantee that the dairy farmers supplying Coles will actually receive any of the funds.
“For years the actions of retailers has eroded the value of the NSW dairy industry and it is offensive that farmers need to apply to access these funds.
“The Coles drought program is not genuine. It only applies to a limited range of products and farmers need to hand over sensitive information such as individual milk statements to access any funds.
“Coles could easily create a mechanism to get funds back to farmers with a level of respect. The drought program is currently just a stunt and we implore Coles to rectify this mess immediately.
“If Coles was serious about helping dairy farmers they would have worked with industry to find a solution that works best for farmers. The bureaucratic application process shows that it is just about appearance and not about getting funds back to farmers,” Ms Chesworth said.
NSW Farmers continues to call for an end to all discounting of dairy products by retailers to support a more sustainable dairy industry.
“Dairy discounting has eroded the dairy industry since 2011 and it is time that the retailers provided sustainable prices to dairy farmers.
“If farmers received a fair price then there would be no need for this drought fund. We need long term changes from retailers to ensure a sustainable industry”.
NSW Farmers supports Minister Littleproud on calling for shoppers to buy branded milk products.
“If consumers want to support farmers then they should be buying branded dairy products, these products help to ensure a more sustainable industry,” Ms Chesworth concluded.
Date: Tuesday 16 October 2018
Media Contact: Kathleen Curry | 0429 011 690