Murray–Darling Basin
The Murray–Darling Basin is the largest and most complex river system in the south-east of Australia, spanning 77,000 kilometres across four states and one territory. It is an important dairying region where farmers have invested in cost effective water management.
Dairying in the Basin
The Murray-Darling Basin includes most of New South Wales, some of southern Queensland, the east of South Australia, northern Victoria and all of the Australian Capital Territory.
In 22–23, dairy farmers across the Basin produced one fifth of the nation’s milk supply — 1.53 billion litres of milk from 912 farms with a value of approximately $1.14 billion at farm gate, and $1.96 billion value to the local economy. The industry supports 6862 jobs on farms, 42 processors across the region, and local businesses such as trades, transport, infrastructure and feedstock.
Like the rest of Australia, the Basin is challenged by dry conditions, less water availability and increasing water costs. Dairy farmers across the Basin increased their water efficiency by adopting new technologies, investing in infrastructure and improving farm systems.
Access resources for supporting dairy farmers with changing conditions in the Basin, as well as learn about the Basin's history and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and Basin Plan.
Workshop
Farmers can also receive support from Dairy Australia’s farm system experts by attending a two-day workshop. It offers a great opportunity to connect with and learn from other farmers that are considering a farm system change.
The workshop will enable farmers to:
- Outline their business objectives to determine the most suitable farm system.
- Share initial versions of their strategic and action plans for group feedback.
- Make an informed decision about the options and considerations for investing in a new system.
- Get ready to start the planning, implementation and operation of their chosen system.
Register your interest in future workshops or request further information using the form below.
