A national survey of Australian dairy farmers will give them an opportunity to provide vital input into an industry “health report” and influence policies for the future.Dairy Australia will seek the views of more than 1300 farmers between now and March 24 for inclusion in the industry’s annual planning cycle.The phone-based survey was first conducted in 2004 when industry leaders identified the need to develop a clear and realistic picture of the industry’s condition and future challenges.

Dairy Australia managing director Mike Ginnivan acknowledged feedback from farmers as essential to the integrity of the survey.

“Input from farmers was critical to the success and credibility of the first survey and has now become an integral part of the industry’s annual planning and review process.

“We would like to thank the farmers for making this survey the significant report that it is and look forward to their continued support,” he said.

While the survey would continue to track key variables like herd demographics, production and investment intentions it would also focus this year on topical issues like labour/skills shortages, herd genetics and the purchase of grain and fodder.

The survey provides a comprehensive snapshot of the condition, attitudes and intentions of the farm sector. It also provides vital input to the broader Situation and Outlook report that is released to industry, stakeholders and government in June each year.

“Co-ordinating the National Dairy Farmer Survey and Situation and Outlook report is an important way in which Dairy Australia can help industry organisations and farmers understand and address emerging challenges. It also helps industry better explain its position to government, service providers and the broader community,” Dr Ginnivan said.