Feed Gap Crisis: How Australian Dairy Farms Build Resilience

After 18–24 months of erratic weather and high input costs, experts highlight forage crop strategies to protect farm profitability and production. Dairy farmers are emerging from a challenging period of 18 to 24 months with erratic weather patterns, significant feed reserve depletion, and soaring input costs. Producers in major dairy regions, including south-east South Australia and south-west Victoria, have faced droughts, floods, and shortened growing seasons, leading to a heavy reliance on purchased feed at record-high prices, squeezing operating margins.

Spring provides a strategic window to establish forage crops aimed at bridging feed gaps through summer and autumn. Efficient feed base management focusing on growth, digestibility, and flexibility can enhance farm profitability. Specific forage options like brassicas, chicory, and ryegrass offer fast growth and nutritional benefits. Silage crops such as sorghum and maize, known for their high yield potential, are advantageous for high-input farms. To mitigate feed supply risks, dairy economics experts recommend accurate forecasting and securing supplies early. Strategic feed quality testing and supplement allocation are essential, guided by agronomists and financial advisers to navigate complex decisions.