News

SA dairy gears up for election

By Dairy News Australia

Nov 19, 2025

South Australian Dairyfarmers' Association president Robert Brokenshire is seeking smart policy to take the dairy industry forward.

The South Australian Dairyfarmers’ Association has launched its pre-election policy platform, Plan to Farm, calling on all political parties to commit to the long-term growth and sustainability of South Australia’s dairy sector.

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The policy builds on the South Australian Dairy Industry Action Plan 2024-2029 and outlines a clear expectation the next government will instruct all relevant departments to align planning, water, environmental and primary industry laws with the needs of dairy producers.

“This is a pivotal moment for South Australian dairy,” SADA president Robert Brokenshire said.

“Our farmers are ready to invest, innovate, and grow — but they need a regulatory environment that enables rather than obstructs. Plan to Farm is our call for that future.”

The dairy industry contributes $1 billion annually to the state economy and supports so many regional jobs.

However, constipated planning laws, uncertain water policy and complex environmental expectations continue to hamper growth.

SADA’s Plan to Farm calls for:

Recognition of best practice in environmental stewardship
Streamlined approvals for dairy infrastructure
Long-term water security and support for reinjection technologies
Modernisation of primary sector legislation
A whole-of-government directive to align policy with the South Australian Dairy Industry Action Plan

“We’re not asking for handouts — we’re asking for smart policy,” Mr Brokenshire said.

“Dairy farmers are ready to lead on sustainability, innovation and food security.

“We just need government to back us in and where necessary back out of the way.”

SADA is seeking formal commitments from all major parties and will be engaging with candidates across the state in the lead-up to the election.