NEWS
New national body recommended for the Australian dairy industry In its report published today on options for reform of dairy industry structures, the Joint Transition Team (JTT) of the Australian Dairy Plan has recommended the creation of a single, new whole of industry national dairy organisation.
The proposed national body (referred to as ‘NewCo B’ in the JTT’s report) would see the current range of national and regional dairy organisations brought together as a one stop shop for all industry services including policy, advocacy, research and development and
marketing for dairy businesses across the entire supply chain. It would operate through one national brand and a network of regional offices providing tailored local services. The proposed new organisation would be member owned and overseen by a skillsbased Board. Farmers would contribute a single levy payment for all services (the current Dairy Service Levy) and processing companies would also provide funding. Eligible expenditure on research and development would continue to attract matched funding from the Commonwealth Government. JTT chairperson and dairy farmer, Shirley Harlock said, “Our report recommends the creation of a dynamic new national organisation
to provide leadership and services for the Australian dairy industry. Mrs Harlock said the operating environment for the dairy industry has changed dramatically over the past two decades. The JTT was formed as part of the Australian Dairy Plan, in response to overwhelming feedback from across the dairy industry about the need for transformational change to industry structures and advocacy arrangements. Feedback on options for reform of industry structure contained in the JTT report can be provided via dairy industry member organisations or directly by email to contact@ dairyplan.com.au. To download the report or for more information on the JTT visit the Australian Dairy Plan website, www.dairyplan.com.au
GMCU pledges $100 per loan to the bushfire appeal
PROVIDING A HELPING HAND… From left, GMCU board member, Eileen Curtis, chief financial officer, Rebecca Hearn, board chair, Eugenie Stragalinos, board member, John Calleja, CEO, Melissa Ralph, executive manager member and marketing, Michelle Frenkel, executive manager IT, Paul Cross and compliance officer, Brett Elgar. Photo: Supplied.
AS the fires that ravaged Victoria over the last month are finally looking to be under control, the next stage is just as difficult as residents return to their towns to begin rebuilding their community and possibly even their homes. To help those during this time, GMCU has pledged that for every loan application approved during February 2020, they will donate $100 to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, which will distribute charitable grants to support affected communities. “Regional townships in Victoria are really in need of our help as they begin to rebuild their communities and livelihoods.
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This is a time when we all have to work together and help each other out,” said GMCU CEO, Melissa Ralph. “We also want to make sure that GMCU members know we are here to help if they have been affected by the fires and we encourage those members to talk to us if they are concerned about their financial situation,” said Ms Ralph. To learn about the personal loans, car loans or home loans GMCU have on offer, simply visit the friendly team at one of the 10 GMCU branches or visit www.gmcu. com.au for more information.
