The Member for South West Coast’s statement comes at a time when dairy farmers seem to be a card played in a game of politics. 

With the recently announced cuts to opening milk prices stinging many suppliers, Ms Britnell has urged the State Government to work cooperatively with the Federal Government.

She said ensuring assistance reached dairy farmers as quickly as possible was vital with a sobering 2016/17 season predicted. 

“The state government is responsible for administering the federal assistance program,” she said. “My concern is if the State Government doesn’t work with the Federal Government it will create more stress for my fellow dairy farmers.”

Ms Britnell said both governments needed to work together to help support those struggling.

“I urge Minister Pulford to stop playing political games,” Ms Britnell said.

Ms Britnell’s words echoed a statement made by Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce on Wednesday. 

Mr Joyce accused the state government of “crude politicisation” following delays in dairy farmers access to financial assistance.

Mr Joyce promised to establish a body to oversee and administrate future agriculture and water resources funding if elected, bypassing state governments.

“There is a clear need for such an institution,” he said. “The Victorian Labor government delayed delivery of (the)… loans by playing crude political games.”

The Federal Government’s Farm Household Allowance is now available to those who qualify, with Centrelink providing up to $952.80 per fortnight for a couple. 

Victorian Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford responded to statements made by Mr Joyce and Ms Britnell on Wednesday evening.

"Victorian farmers deserve a better deal from the Commonwealth,” she said. “That's not playing politics, that's fighting for the best deal our farmers can get.”

"Many farmers will be frozen out of the Commonwealth's package and the Coalition know it."