Mark Billing: A Visionary Leader in the Dairy Industry

Mark Billing, born on May 12, 1965, in rural Victoria, Australia, has been a pivotal figure in the dairy industry. His early life on a dairy farm fostered a deep appreciation for dairy farming, leading him to pursue a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne, where he graduated with honors in 1987. Upon completing his education, Mark took over the management of his family dairy farm, where he applied innovative techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Professional Journey

Mark Billing joined Dairy Farmers Victoria in 2005 as a board member and was elected President in 2017. His leadership has been marked by several key achievements:

• 2017: Elected President of Dairy Farmers Victoria.
• 2018: Successfully negotiated better milk pricing, increasing revenue for Victoria's dairy farmers by 15%.
• 2019: Implemented innovative sustainability practices, reducing the carbon footprint by 20%.
• 2021: Launched a mental health support initiative for farmers.
• 2023: Engaged with policymakers to discuss proposed government regulations impacting dairy farming.

Current Role and Influence

In 2023, Mark continues to serve as the President of Dairy Farmers Victoria. His tenure is characterized by advocacy for dairy farmers' welfare and advancement, ensuring their voices are heard by industry stakeholders and government officials.

Significance in the Dairy Industry

Mark Billing's contributions have significantly impacted the future of dairy farming in Victoria. His efforts to increase revenue, enhance sustainability, and support farmer welfare solidify his reputation as a key industry figure.

Challenges and Advocacy

Mark Billing has been vocal about the challenges posed by supermarkets and the need for fair pricing. He has highlighted the potential of virtual fencing as a significant advancement for Victorian farmers and criticized inadequate pricing structures that do not support farmers during challenging times. Mark advocates for industry unity and is cautious about removing the Australian Dairy Products Federation while negotiations are ongoing. He has expressed surprise if local milk prices drop, emphasizing the importance of processors adopting a long-term view.

Modified: 2026/01/23