Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie urged local farmers and stakeholders to take part and help improve contracts between farmers and processors.

“We need farmers and processors in throughout our region to have their say and make sure the code will work for them and our local region,” Dr Gillespie said.

“The code will aim to make contracts fairer, more transparent and enforce a dispute resolution process.

“We all know how important the dairy industry is to us here in our region and this can be the first step to a better industry.”

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the dairy industry had come to him and requested a mandatory code of conduct.

“So let’s not waste time – let’s get on with it,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Consultations are the first step in the process, and the Department of Agriculture will be in town talking to local people about what should be in the code on Wednesday November 21 at 10:30am the Wauchope Country Club.

“This isn’t the silver bullet and there’s much more to be done, but it’s a good start,” said the minister.

More information about the development of the code can be found on the have your say website https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au

People can register online, email dairycode@agriculture.gov.au or phone 1300 044 940.