Dairy Farmers Victoria has agreed to merge with the historical United Dairyfarmers Victoria.
The DFV was set up two years ago when aggrieved UDV members split from the lobby group.
VFF announced last week the reunification of dairy farmer representation, with UDV to once again operate as the single, unified voice for the state’s dairy industry within the VFF structure.
The agreement follows extensive discussions between DFV, UDV and VFF leadership, resolving long-standing concerns about resourcing and representation for Victoria’s dairy sector.
UDV is touting a renewed commitment to commodity-specific advocacy, with dedicated staffing and budget resources.
UDV acting president Ian Morris welcomed the announcement as a significant step forward for the industry.
“Dairy farmers have been clear that they want one strong, united voice advocating on their behalf,” Mr Morris said.
“This reunification means Victorian dairy farmers will now have powerful representation at both the state level through the VFF, and nationally through our membership of Australian Dairy Farmers.
“By working together across the sector, we will be better positioned to tackle the challenges facing our industry, from fair pricing and processor relations to water security and drought support.”
The arrangements have been settled within the existing VFF constitutional framework, with UDV continuing as the VFF’s recognised dairy commodity group in its existing form.”
DFV president Mark Billing said the reunification marked a new chapter for Victorian dairy.
“This outcome demonstrates that when we work together constructively, we can achieve outcomes that benefit all dairy farmers,” Mr Billing said.
The reunified dairy body will operate as a commodity group within the VFF, benefiting from the VFF’s decision to strengthen resourcing for dairy-specific advocacy, while also contributing to broader agricultural policy through the federation.
The announcement follows the appointment of Corrie Goodwin as executive of UDV.
Mr Goodwin will lead implementation of the UDV’s advocacy priorities as set by its Policy Council.
“With a stronger, unified voice now in place and new positions becoming available, now is the time for dairy farmers across Victoria to join and put their hand up to be involved,” Mr Morris said.
Nominations for office bearers will open this month.
Mr Billing said the reasons for the break-away had been dealt with in today’s UDV, which included better resourcing for policy development and appointment of staff which are commodity-specific.
He said he was satisfied with the VFF’s leadership under Brett Hosking.
DFV will continue as an entity, but not in public advocacy, but will use its finances to support farm safety and wellbeing in memory of the late Brad Collins, who was a member of DFV’s Committee.
Mr Billing would not be drawn on any of his personal aspirations, saying he was concentrating on bringing the two organisations together first.
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