Speaking at seminar in Warrnambool, Mr Halliday said the difficulties faced within the industry would not last forever. 

“It’s a great industry… we need to keep working together to give support to those who need it,” Mr Halliday said. “We all know it’s been a tough 12 months and the next 12 will be tougher still.”

Mr Halliday spent two days attending meetings across the south-west to “get an idea of the challenges being faced”. 

He said the effects of a dry season and low-milk prices had resulted in farmers and service providers struggling financially.

Mr Halliday said when the cuts to milk prices were announced in May, Dairy Australia immediately acted to improve, develop and push support networks and programs.

“We feel it most important that farmers seek and get the best advice they can to make the best decisions moving forward,” Mr Halliday said. 

“There have been 21 Tactics for Tight Times events in the past month with over 700 participating and we’d like to see more.

“Dairy Australia will continue funding the (free financial support program) Taking Stock as long as people need it.”

Mr Halliday said even though Dairy Australia’s 2016/17 budget had taken financial cuts, it would continue to prioritise farmer support and research and development programs.

“Before the milk price announcements in April we had an estimated budget of 62-63 million.” he said. “An estimated five per cent drop in national milk volume production this year has dropped our budget by $8-9 million.” 

Mr Halliday said he was “more than happy” to speak with anyone.

“We try to catch up with as many as we can when we do these regional visits, to help farmers improve their profitability and focus on what can be done,” he said.

He said smaller, more intimate meetings allowed for two-way discussion and the sharing of ideas.