Floods hit dairy farmers hard—is your milk supply at risk?

Milk has long been a staple in Australian households, a simple yet essential part of our daily routines. Milk holds a special place in kitchens nationwide, whether it’s poured into a morning cuppa, drizzled over cereal, or added to a favourite recipe. 

But if you’ve noticed your morning cuppa or bowl of cereal tasting a little more precious lately, you’re not alone. Australians are being warned to brace for a potential milk shortage, and it’s not just a matter of paying a few extra cents at the checkout.

The recent catastrophic floods in northern New South Wales (NSW) have left the nation’s dairy industry reeling, and the ripple effects are set to reach fridges and pantries across the country. 

The devastation began as the Manning River and other waterways surged to record levels, sweeping away entire herds of cattle, flattening fences, and destroying the vital machinery and infrastructure that keep dairy farms running. 

For many farmers, the aftermath has been heartbreaking. Some returned to find their land empty and their livestock lost to the floodwaters.

Eric Danzi, chief executive of EastAusmilk, didn’t mince words: ‘There is going to be a real shortage of milk and products. How that plays through to consumers I don’t know.’ 

He explained that the floods, the lingering effects of ex-Cyclone Alfred and ongoing drought conditions in South Australia and Victoria have created a ‘massive reduction in milk production across Australia’.

For the dairy farmers of the mid-north coast, the blows have come thick and fast. Many are facing losses in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, with some producers still reeling from the damage caused by ex-Cyclone Alfred just months earlier.

After visiting the flood-ravaged mid-north coast, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made it clear that the impact of these disasters isn’t confined to the local area. 

‘While there are people who are directly affected here, every Australian is affected as well, by the fact that we’ve had a loss of dairy industries that will have an impact right throughout Australia,’ he said.

The human cost is staggering, with over 5,000 properties damaged and nearly 800 uninhabitable. 

At the peak of the disaster, 50,000 people were isolated from their homes, and as of the latest reports, over 10,000 remain cut off. Tragically, at least five lives have been lost.

In the face of such adversity, the resilience of Australia’s farming communities is being tested like never before. NSW Farmers president Xavier Martin has urged those affected not to ‘fight floods alone’. 

He emphasised: ‘Dreadful connectivity has made it very difficult for many to stay in touch, but there is real help available, and please don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you can.’

The NSW Agriculture and Animal Services Hotline (1800 814 647) is operational, and the Department of Primary Industries, Regional Development, and Local Land Services are actively sharing information about available support. 

Local Evacuation Centres and Recovery Centres have also opened, providing everything from emergency accommodation and food to social support and resources for rebuilding.

Martin also highlighted the importance of mental health, reminding farmers and their families that services like Lifeline (13 11 14) are available 24/7, and that a comprehensive list of mental health resources can be found on the NSW Farmers website.

What does this mean for shoppers?

In the coming weeks and months, you may notice less milk on the shelves, and prices could rise as supply struggles to meet demand. It’s not just milk; dairy products like cheese, yoghurt, and butter could also be affected.

While supermarkets and suppliers will do their best to keep things running smoothly, the dairy industry faces one of its toughest periods in recent memory. 

As consumers, a little patience and understanding can go a long way. If you’re able, consider supporting local producers and small dairies, many of whom are having a tough time right now.

Australia’s dairy farmers are no strangers to adversity, but the scale of this disaster is unprecedented. Recovery will take time, resources, and community spirit. 

The government has called in the Australian Defence Force to assist with the clean-up, and support services are working around the clock to help those affected get back on their feet.

Have you noticed changes in your local supermarket’s dairy section? Are you a farmer, or do you know someone in the industry impacted by the floods? In the comments below, we’d love to hear your stories, thoughts, and tips for coping with the current shortage.

Also read: What’s the difference between skim milk and light milk?