Former Victorian premier to guide dairy sector plan

A former Victorian premier has been instated to stabilise the country’s embattled dairy sector, heading an Australia-wide industry plan to promote “positive change” in the next five years.

John Brumby, who was premier of Victoria from 2007 to 2010, was this morning announced as independent chairman of the Australian Dairy Plan.

“I recognise that this is a difficult time to be looking to the future, given the extensive dry conditions across Australia and the current lack of profitability for many dairy farmers and dairy manufacturers,” he said.

“But this makes it more important than ever to get our focus right on the future and for the industry to unite and work together.”

Mr Brumby will serve in the role until the Australian Dairy Plan report is finalised later this year.

The appointment comes ahead of nationwide industry consultation, scheduled to start this month.