Gippsland's Bold Dairy Vision: A $4 Billion Growth Strategy

According to the Gippsland Dairy Industry Leadership Group (GDILG), chaired by Matt Gleeson, Gippsland's 1,028 dairy farms produce 1.9 billion liters of milk annually, accounting for 23% of Australia's national dairy production. The industry represents a substantial economic force, contributing A$4 billion yearly and employing over 6,000 people across farming and processing sectors.

The ten-year strategy emphasizes five core themes: enhancing skills development and career pathways, economic resilience, technological adoption, environmental management, and meeting community expectations. This holistic approach aligns with government objectives in resource management and emissions reduction.

A significant aspect is attracting new milk processing and food manufacturing facilities. Gippsland's reliable milk supply, balanced across various farming conditions, positions it as an attractive area for investment. The blueprint provides comprehensive data for councils and government agencies to capitalize on federal funding opportunities and develop regional infrastructure.

The strategy, supported by the Gardiner Dairy Foundation, serves as an authoritative document to enhance the sector's role in regional planning, ensuring a multiplier effect of job and income security in Gippsland communities.