Australia's new agriculture minister will have to hit the ground running, according to dairy lobby group, Dairy Connect.
Senator Bridget McKenzie will become the first female agriculture minister following the announcement of the new cabinet by Prime Minister Scott Morrison on the weekend.
Dairy Connect today welcomed the appointment of Senator Bridget McKenzie and urged her to jump straight into the job.
Dairy Connect CEO Shaughn Morgan said Minister McKenzie would need to hit the ground running because of the multiple challenges facing agriculture generally and dairy in particular.
“First item on our agenda for action will be the urgent need to appoint a Federal Dairy Commissioner to fast-track solutions to the myriad market challenges facing dairy production in Australia,” Mr Morgan said,.
“Australian dairy is in crisis and now is the time for action. The time for reviews and inquiries is over.”
“The crisis is due to the on-going impacts of drought; dairy herds being culled; skyrocketing energy prices; higher production costs; unconscionable milk supply agreements; and market failure.
“The proposed new Mandatory Code of Conduct for the dairy industry is not due to kick-in until 1 July next year. Its commencement date should be moved forward.
Former agriculture Minister, David Littleproud, will retain his water portfolio.