A BARHAM dairy farmer has urged the Mallee to band together in support of farmers who have had “the chair kicked out from them” by the milk price crisis.
The Victorian Government on Friday announced a $1.5 million assistance package for the state’s dairy farmers, who have been left reeling since major milk companies Murray Goulburn and Fonterra slashed the prices they pay to producers for milk solids.
The government assistance package includes $940,000 for extra counselling services and additional funding for Lifeline, $345,000 in grants for affected communities, $150,000 to provide 750 people with mental health first aid training, and $100,000 for extra community well-being workshops and events.
Dairy farmer Alan Mathers, who has farmed at Barham for 32 years, pleaded with people to talk to friends and relatives who have been affected by the price cuts.
“If a farmer is travelling okay, he might be able to sell his herd so it isn’t a big whack,” he said.
“Then there are guys who are in a lot of debt who have already been belted by water prices, it’s been a tough year anyway and now the chair has been kicked out from them.
“It is the next generation of farmers who are really exposed. If this isn’t illegal then it is morally wrong.”
Mr Mathers said he was confused at Murray Goulburn and Fonterra’s decision to “recall” money already paid, believing most businesses would write it off as a loss.
Dairy farmers had already been struck down in 2009 when prices were slashed by 26 to 40 per cent following the global financial crisis.
“I thought after 2009 it wouldn’t happen again but it is on steroids this time,” Mr Mathers said.
“Last time was probably more acceptable, there was an overnight world market crash.
“But (this time) the directors were asleep at the wheel and I can’t comprehend why they didn’t blow the whistle earlier.”
Nationals leader Peter Walsh said the State Government’s assistance package was a good start, but he wanted to see more support shown by the private sector.
“The next step will be to provide relief that eases the cash flow crunch for our dairy businesses,” Mr Walsh said.
“Farmers have raised with me this week the possibility of municipal rates relief, waivers for water charges and easily accessed low-interest finance which would help ease some of the financial pressure dairy businesses are under.
“I have been to meetings and the farmers are angry, they have a sense of betrayal and they have got it wrong and let them down badly.”
For mental health support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
